As the big, white flakes fall to the ground, winter sports enthusiasts flock to the Ludington area. Here, we head outdoors, embrace the season and enjoy all that the area has to offer; but if you are looking for a warm, cozy place, Ludington has those too! 

Here are Top 8 reasons we feel the Ludington area is a splendid winter destination.

1. Ludington State Park

The Ludington State Park is THE winter recreation destination for locals and visitors alike. Here you will find 20 miles of trails with 8 loops and beautiful dunes to explore while hiking, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. The park offers year-round camping, but you can also meander the trails any time without staying overnight. 
    

2. Sledding

The state park is also a great place to go sledding! Take the Skyline Trail up the stairway, and you will find a dune overlooking Lake Michigan. Sail down the hill on a sled or tube and get your exercise by making your way back up - to do it all over again! Check out Consumers Park as another place to go sledding, or try the disc golf courses on site. The Ludington School Forest also has a disc golf area, called the Leviathan.

3. Fat Tire Biking

Another way to explore snow-covered trails in the area is on a fat tire bike. This sport has grown in popularity over recent years, and in Ludington, cycling enthusiasts will find a number of trail systems to try. Enjoy scenic routes along M-116 dunes, or the wooded areas of Cartier Park, Ludington State Park or the Lake Michigan Recreation Area. Ludington is known for being a four season biking location!

4. Snowmobiling

As snow blankets the landscape, engines are revving to take to the trails in Northern Michigan. Snowmobiling has become such a favorite pastime that Michigan has over 6,500 miles of snowmobile trails.

In Ludington, you can navigate the frozen terrain from a number of locations. Local roadways will lead you along and through picturesque forests and ultimately connect you to groomed sections of trails in adjacent Manistee, Lake  and Oceana counties.

5. A Romantic Getaway

Ludington is home to a number of cozy bed & breakfasts that want you to feel pampered and comfortable. A number of special savings packages are offered throughout the season, so you can make your escape affordably. The accommodations are conveniently located near downtown Ludington, where you will find a great variety of shops and restaurants.

6. Chocolate Walk

If you have a sweet tooth, you won’t want to miss the Downtown Ludington Chocolate Walk on February 13. Venture to downtown businesses from 1-5 p.m., where friendly retailers will be waiting for you with a delicious treat at each stop.

There is no cost, but grab tickets in order to receive a map.

7. Take-home workshops

The Ludington Area Center for the Arts has converted many of its art workshops into “Workshops in a Box” for participants to complete in the comfort of their own homes. Each box includes the supplies needed to complete the project, as well as written instructions and a link to an online tutorial.

Boxes cost between $15 and $50. Online orders for "Workshops in a Box" can be made at here.

8. Ice Skating

Rekindle childhood memories by taking a spin around an ice rink. The West Shore Community Ice Arena has a regulation-sized rink open for skating lessons and public ice skating sessions. Skates are available on site to rent. Be sure to call ahead for the current schedule.

A poly rink with free admission is also located at Waterfront Park in Ludington, with free skate rental available at the Mason County District Library.

Request a Pure Ludington Travel Guide for more travel tips and ideas, and share your photos with us using #PureLudington!