Visitors to Ludington State Park are in for a delightful surprise when it reopens next summer. While the $3.2 million project focuses on parking lots and roads, the park staff is also working on crucial tasks that are often challenging to complete with a full park. The 4,300-acre park, nestled between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, closed after Labor Day and is set to reopen on July 1.

Beloved Trails and Their Repairs

One of the park's cherished trails, the Lost Lake Trail, is getting some much-needed attention. The trail features a beautiful boardwalk along the shore of Lost Lake and a staircase near Beechwood Campground. "Fairly extensive boardwalk repairs" are planned to enhance the trail's safety and durability. So far, the crew has completed work on the staircase, which previously had "give and movement" that is now gone. They strengthened the stairway and landings with more stringers and braces, and replaced worn and damaged stair treads, decking, and railings. The stairway is now much more solid. Staff hopes to carry out maintenance on the boardwalk in the spring before the park reopens.

Details of Stairway Repair

The crew's efforts in repairing the staircase are truly remarkable. By adding more stringers and braces, they were able to provide a stable foundation for the decks. This not only makes the staircase safer but also gives visitors a more confident walking experience. The replaced stair treads, decking, and railings blend seamlessly with the original structure, maintaining the trail's charm. The attention to detail in this repair work showcases the park's commitment to providing a high-quality experience for visitors.

Boardwalk Maintenance Plans

The planned maintenance on the Lost Lake Trail boardwalk is essential for the long-term sustainability of the trail. The boardwalk provides a unique connection between the lake and the surrounding nature. By addressing any wear and tear, the park ensures that visitors can enjoy this scenic path for years to come. The spring maintenance is a crucial step in keeping the boardwalk in good condition and enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Other Closure Work

During the closure, various other maintenance tasks are being carried out. The exterior of the 1930s Lake Michigan beach house is getting upgrades, giving it a fresh look. Restrooms and shower buildings are being spruced up to provide a more comfortable experience for visitors. New fire rings are being added, and picnic tables are being repaired. Hazardous tree removal is also part of the work to ensure the safety of visitors.

Beach and River Areas

The closure affects not only the campgrounds and trails but also the main Lake Michigan beach area and the Hamlin day-use areas. The beach, Hamlin Dam, the boat launch, and picnic areas along the Big Sable River are all closed. However, areas south of the entry booth remain open, allowing visitors to enjoy some of the park's amenities.

Campground and Trail Highlights

Ludington State Park is renowned for its seven miles of sandy Lake Michigan beachfront, an iconic lighthouse, and a one-mile stretch of the Big Sable River. The 21 miles of marked trails through wetlands, marshes, dunes, and forests offer a diverse range of outdoor experiences. With three modern campgrounds and 352 campsites, the park is a popular destination for camping. Whether it's fishing, paddling, tubing, or hiking, there is something for everyone at Ludington State Park.