Biking in West Michigan
Much of West Michigan is bicycle-friendly, and you’ll find many nice paths on which to ride. It’s great exercise with great scenery to enjoy.
Photo by Timothy Eberly on Unsplash.com
Mason County, home to Ludington, Scottville, Hamlin Lake and many rural communities, is well known for beaches and its beautiful countryside. But there’s much more to offer locals and visitors, as Mason County is also becoming rich in culture, and there are hidden treasures throughout the county that the general public may not be aware of. To bring attention to the historical and cultural aspects of Mason County, a new “trail” system was formed. The Mason County Cultural Trail is comprised of four trails: Lumber Heritage Trail, Agricultural Trail, Barn Quilt Trail, and Sculpture Trail.
The Agricultural Trail has stops in both Mason and Oceana counties. It explores the rich farmland and the crops they produce. Some of the highlights are Historic White Pine Village, Lewis Farms & Petting Zoo, and Kistlercrest Farms.
The Barn Quilt Trail features ten local barns throughout the barn that display a unique 8′ x 8′ plywood square with a beautiful design. It’s a wonderful drive through the back roads of Mason County to view these historic barns.
The Sculpture Trail focuses on a bit of art and history, wrapped up in special bronze sculptures. The majority of sculptures are on display at Waterfront Park in downtown Ludington. Others are found at the Mason County Fairgrounds, the library, and the Ludington State Park.
The Lumber Heritage Trail showcases life in the late 1800’s when the lumber economy was booming. Stops on this trail include many former homes of lumber barons, two cemeteries, and the Lumber Museum at Historic White Pine Village.
Much of West Michigan is bicycle-friendly, and you’ll find many nice paths on which to ride. It’s great exercise with great scenery to enjoy.
Before you make a splash in Lake Michigan, check out the water temperatures for beaches from Manistee, Ludington, Pentwater, and Silver Lake.
Agriculture plays a large role in the economics of Mason County. Take this self-guided tour to learn about agriculture in Mason County.
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Find artifacts, photographs, and lots of information and stories about the rich history of Pentwater at this historic museum!
Scottville Riverside Park, along the Pere Marquette River, has over 50 modern sites and is popular for camping and fishing.
Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes has miles of sand trails and hills, where hikers are rewarded at the end with spectacular views of Lake Michigan.
West Michigan is home to numerous artists with so many different talents. Groovy music, vivid paintings, gorgeous photography, and more!
Manistee National Forest together with the Huron National Forest occupies almost a million acres of land in Michigan’s lower peninsula.
Hop aboard the Lake Michigan S.S. Badger Carferry! Take the famous cruise across Lake Michigan and experience the Badger and all it has to do!
Along the Lake Michigan shoreline between Ludington and Manistee, you’ll find natural splendor- the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness area.
Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.
The Traverse City Opera House has a 700-seat theater which offers a place for quality arts and cultural entertainment.
The Pere Marquette River area is rich with wildlife, offering great outdoors hunting and fishing opportunities.