Races in West Michigan
West Michigan is a popular location for various races and runs… including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.
West Michigan Guides Stock Photo
The lakeshore communities of West Michigan do a fantastic job of hosting events and activities that include the whole family. There’s so much happening that is geared specifically toward kids and families as a whole, and that’s part of what makes being here so amazing!
Every season in West Michigan has it’s unique, fun things to do for kids of all ages- from babies up to the “young at heart”. Indoors or outdoors, no matter the time of year, there’s always something great going on along the lakeshore for families to experience together!
In addition to the following list, check out all the special events and programs provided by Sandcastles Children’s Museum and the Ludington and Scottville branches of the Mason County District Libraries.
Fat Tire Biking Season
Riders can enjoy 450 acres of open sand dunes, elevation changes of 80-100 feet, access to Lake Michigan, and sunsets over the lake from the top of the dunes. For more info, visit michigan.gov. Silver Lake State Park- 8890 West Shore Dr., Mears.
New Year’s Resolution Run 5k
Run course includes downtown Ludington and the 4th Ward area. For more information, visit downtownludington.com.
Annual Blessing of the Sleds
Sleds gather & breakfast starts at 9am, blessing at 11am. Free, donations accepted. Skinner Park- 5074 W. 10 ½ Mile Rd, Irons.
Winter Hike
The Spirit of the Woods Chapter of the North Country Trail Association host this beginning at the Big M Cross Country Ski Trails- Wellston. Chili & hot chocolate will be served in the heated warming shelter at 12pm The hike will follow and out and back route in the Manistee National Forest. Parking is limited and unplowed. RSVP to hike coordinator, Loren Bach, at (231) 510-1963 or spw@northcountrytrail.org. For more info, visit facebook.com.
Lantern Lit Hike
The hike begins at the Warming Shelter and has approximately 1 mile of lighted trails for walking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing. There are bonfires at both the Warming Shelter and the Amphitheater, along with free warm beverages at the Amphitheater. No registration is needed and lantern lit walks are free. Ludington State Park- 8800 M-116, Ludington.
Michigan’s Free Snowmobiling Weekend
Michigan offers the opportunity to snowmobilers to operate their machines without a snowmobile registration or trail permit.
Diapers & Desserts Giveaway
Families with children ages 3 and under are invited to attend and receive free diapers and treats. A parent or legal guardian must be present in order to receive diapers for the child(ren). Diapers up to size 6 will be available. West Shore Family Support- 603 E. Tinkham Ave., Ludington.
Grand Rapids Camper, Travel, & RV Show
Thursday from 3-9pm, Friday from 12-9pm, Saturday from 10am-9pm, and Sunday from 11am-5pm. Admission is $12 for adults, $5 for kids ages 6-14, and free for kids 5 & under. There is also an adult multi-day ticket option for $18 (good for all 4 days- online purchase only). Purchase tickets online at showspan.com/grv. For more information, call (616) 447-2860. Devos Place- 303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids.
Michigan Adventure Race: Winter Edition
Teams race together to find as many checkpoints as possible via trail and off-trail running. Camp Roger- 8356 Belding Rd. NE, Rockford.
Bigfoot Snowshoe Race
The course is a snowy jaunt through the woods with plenty of logs to jump and branches to duck. Gather pre-race around a roaring fire, and stick around post race to warm up with a bowl of chili. For more info or to register, visit runsnow.com. Timber Ridge Nordic Center- 4050 Hammond Rd., Traverse City.
Benefit Dog Sled Derby
Event includes Kid ‘n Mutt 1-Dog Dash and sanctioned dog weight pull. Proceeds benefit Grandma’s Cupboard Baby Pantry and the Baldwin High School Band. Visit facebook.com for more info.
Lantern Lit Hike
The hike begins at the Warming Shelter and has approximately 1 mile of lighted trails for walking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing. There are bonfires at both the Warming Shelter and the Amphitheater, along with free warm beverages at the Amphitheater. No registration is needed and lantern lit walks are free. Ludington State Park- 8800 M-116, Ludington.
Great Start Collaborative Winter Book Walk
Families are invited to walk, snowshoe, or ski the lantern lit path at the Ludington State Park. The first 100 families will receive a signed copy of the book by a featured author. There will be a bonfire and free warm beverages at the amphitheater.
Monster Pike Ice Fishing Tournament
Sponsored by PM Expeditions. There will be a 100% payout for the longest pike. This tournament is only for pike- no other fish will be included. Participants must be in line for measuring at Suttons Landing by 5pm. Call (231) 845-7285 for more information.
West Michigan is a popular location for various races and runs… including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
The park remains open year-round for hiking, snowshoeing, activities to give those who love winter something fun to look forward to!
Todd and Brad Reed offer Photography Workshops throughout the year. These classes are great for beginners as well as seasoned professionals.
The communities along Lake Michigan are blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us throughout the year.
Farm Markets & U-Pick farms offer locally grown and organic produce, flowers, plants, seeds, and more in West Michigan.
Beer, cider, wine, and more are at this wintertime festival! Stay warm with heaters and a large tent for shelter while you enjoy!
Michigan has a public ORV trail system for four different riding opportunities–motorcycles, ATVs, ORVs, and scramble areas.
Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes has miles of sand trails and hills, where hikers are rewarded at the end with spectacular views of Lake Michigan.
Dune Rides in your ATV or ORV are popular at Silver Lake Sand Dunes in Michigan, but many rules and regulations apply.
Pet live animals, enjoy fresh produce and dairy products, and more! Lots of experiences are available for the family when you visit the farm!
The park remains open year-round for hiking, snowshoeing, activities to give those who love winter something fun to look forward to!
Various farm markets around Traverse City offer a bounty of the best-tasting produce around, with many open from May until early fall.