HAMLIN TOWNSHIP, MI – In the winter, this iconic black and white lighthouse is complemented by swirls of snow and sand, icicles and Lake Michigan ice shelves.
While it’s most popular in the summertime, Big Sable Point Lighthouse at Ludington State Park can be reached on foot year-round.
Situated on the sandy Lake Michigan shoreline, the 1867 lighthouse and grounds are nestled among the jack pines. The tower stands 112 feet tall.
“Winter at Big Sable Point has its own kind of magic,” said Julie Slagter, marketing manager for Lakeshore Keepers, which manages the lighthouse. “Hiking to the lighthouse this time of year is peaceful, amid the snow-covered dunes. The sound of waves crashing against the icy shoreline will help set your pace as you admire nature’s beauty. You might even get a glimpse of wildlife, like a deer or rabbit scurrying across the trail. Once you reach the end, you’ll get the reward of the lighthouse tower standing tall on the shore.”
The live view from the lighthouse’s lantern room webcam shows its currently surrounded by frozen sand, patches of wind-blown sand, and a small Lake Michigan ice shelf.
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To reach the light, start at the warming shelter parking lot directly north of the park’s toll booth (a Recreation Passport is required for entry). Head north toward Pines Campground on a new pedestrian pathway just east of the parking lot. Follow the pathway to the campground. Continue north through the campground to the trailhead. The 1.8-mile trail is relatively flat but ungroomed in the winter, which means it’s primarily good for snowshoeing and hiking.
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The lighthouse and nearby restrooms are closed for the winter. Visitors will find interpretive signage, picnic tables and breathtaking views of the lighthouse and big lake.
The lighthouse will be open for tower climbs May 4 to Oct. 25. Find hours of operation, prices and safety tips here.
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The trail to the light is among more than 7 miles of ungroomed snowshoe trails at the park. There are also more than 6 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, weather permitting. A map is available near the park’s warming shelter.
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The 4,800-acre park, nestled between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, is known for its seven miles of sandy Lake Michigan beachfront, the lighthouse and a one-mile stretch of Big Sable River that’s popular for fishing, paddling and tubing. The park also features 21 miles of marked trails through wetlands, marshes, dunes and forests, plus two water trails. Hamlin Lake is popular for recreation, including boating, hiking, fishing, paddling and swimming. The park, 8800 M-116 north of Ludington, is especially in demand for camping. It has three modern campgrounds with 352 campsites.
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Lakeshore Keepers, formerly Big Sable Points Keepers Association, manages Big Sable Point Lighthouse and four others: Ludington North Breakwater Light at Stearns Park in Ludington; White River Light Station in Whitehall; Little Sable Point Lighthouse in Mears; and the Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse at Fifth Avenue Beach in Manistee.
