Michigan State Park also Features Groomed Cross-Country Ski Trails and Winter Camping

LUDINGTON, Michigan – Enjoy the crisp winter air at Ludington State Park, 8800 M-116, Ludington, with a series of snowshoeing events on select Saturdays in January and February.

Lantern-Lit Cross-Country Skiing/Snowshoeing

Visitors can bring cross-country skis and/or snowshoes to ski or walk a short lighted, groomed trail through the park's forested sand dunes for this free* evening event Jan. 4 & 18, and Feb. 1 and 15, 6-8 p.m. The lighted trail begins at the Warming Shelter and follows lanterns to a campfire along the trail for a warm-up and hot beverage. The park has 40 pairs of wooden snowshoes to loan free on a first-come, first-served basis for visitors 10 years old to adult. Reservations are not required. Park staff and volunteers will be on hand to help visitors. Participants are advised to dress warmly in layers.

Guided Snowshoe Walks

Guided Snowshoe Walks are Saturdays, Jan. 4 through Feb. 15 at 2 p.m., and Jan. 11, 25 and Feb. 11 at 6 p.m. This 1.5-hour, free* guided snowshoe hike highlights the park's nature and history through snow-covered sand dunes. The park has 40 pairs of wooden snowshoes to loan for free on a first-come, first-served basis, fitting visitors aged 10 years old to adult. Reservations are not required. Staff is on hand to help novice trekkers.

Other Park Winter Activities

Ludington State Park offers several miles of groomed cross-country ski trails among the parks 20-mile trail system, including the Logging Trail and South Ski Trails. Snowshoeing is allowed on the non-groomed trails. Winter camping is available in the Cedar and Jack-Pine campgrounds throughout the winter, along with three heated mini-cabins for rent.

*There is no charge to participate in the snowshoe events or self-guided cross-country skiing, but a Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry to Ludington State Park.

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