Big Sable Point Light stands in Ludington State Park, on a reach of dunes between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake. The Michigan DNR manages the park. The U.S. Coast Guard history page dates the light to 1867, near Ludington, a white tower with the middle third black. 12

What to see

The lighthouse is reached on a 1.8-mile one-way sand-and-gravel path, on foot or by bike. The DNR says the path has little shade and can be hard in heat. 1 The park itself has about 7 miles of Lake Michigan shore, Hamlin Lake, marked trails and a historic Lake Michigan beach house with exhibits. 1 Volunteer keepers with Lakeshore Keepers offer lighthouse tours, a shop and a tower climb in season; the DNR lists that season as May through October and notes a fee for the climb without posting the amount here. 1

Best seasons

The park is used year-round. The lighthouse tour season the DNR names is May through October. Current open days and hours belong on the park page and with the keepers, not on a page that is reviewed every 90 days. 1 For winter in the dunes, see Winter.

How to get there

The DNR says the main park entrance is at the end of M-116. It does not recommend large vehicles on Piney Ridge Road. 1 From the Pines Campground, follow the lighthouse marks to the path between campsites 58 and 59. 1 A Recreation Passport is required for motor vehicles entering Michigan state parks. 3

Tips

  • Bring water. The path is long, sandy and lightly shaded. 1
  • You can return on the same path or, if water levels allow, along the Lake Michigan shore. The DNR warns that high water can make the shore walk hard. 1
  • The DNR posts trail closures on the park page, including work that can shut a trail for a season. Read it before you plan a loop. 1
  • Most of the park's Lake Michigan shore is closed to pets to protect piping plover habitat. A pet-friendly stretch sits between the beach house and the Big Sable River. 1

Safety

Lake Michigan currents and heat on the walk are the main risks the DNR names. This page does not report today's flags, water level or which trails are closed. Check the Ludington State Park page and the DNR beach safety page before you go. 14