
Winter in Manistee County
Winter in Manistee County includes great outdoor activities like skiing, snow shoeing, hiking, ice skating, and more.
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.

Winter in Manistee County includes great outdoor activities like skiing, snow shoeing, hiking, ice skating, and more.

Take one of the most scenic drives in the nation as you travel across M-22 in West Michigan. A long winding road of adventure awaits!

Pere Marquette River, with it’s moderately fast current and clear water, is an extremely popular river for canoeists and kayakers.

The spring/fall runs of steelhead and salmon, the resident brown trout and “brookies” make the PM River extremely popular for fishing.

Get some fresh air and exercise during those cold winter months when you hit the Pentwater Pathway for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

Agriculture plays a large role in the economics of Mason County. Take this self-guided tour to learn about agriculture in Mason County.

Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes has miles of sand trails and hills, where hikers are rewarded at the end with spectacular views of Lake Michigan.

Take one of the most scenic drives in the nation as you travel across M-22 in West Michigan. A long winding road of adventure awaits!

The Pentwater River provides opportunities to experience a paddle sport for the first time or take on a challenge for those more experienced.