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 NeONBRAND on Unsplash
We residents of West Michigan are blessed to have one of the Great Lakes right in our backyard. Lake Michigan is a vast, fresh water lake that is a haven for swimmers, boaters, and fishermen. The S.S. Badger carferry crosses Lake Michigan every day during the summer as a shortcut to Wisconsin.
Though not as warm as the oceans, temperatures of Lake Michigan do rise to the high 60s in July and August to make swimming enjoyable, and definitely refreshing! Rarely do temperatures make it to the 70s, unless air temperatures stay up in the 90’s for many continuous days.
Our beaches in West Michigan are some of the nicest and cleanest you’ll find anywhere. You can choose whether or not to join the crowds at the highly populated spots or find a private beach that’s less busy. Sunning, swimming, or building that special sand castle- West Michigan beaches offer it all!
If you find the water temperature of the “unsalted inland sea” is cooler than you prefer, no worries. When Lake Michigan is too chilly for your taste, head to the warmer inland waters of Hamlin Lake, Silver Lake, and many other inland lakes in Mason, Manistee, and Oceana Counties. Since these lakes are smaller and more protected by the surrounding land, they tend to warm more quickly than Lake 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.
West Michigan boasts numerous museums to learn about the area’s rich history and to expand knowledge through activities and exhibits.
The Manistee Riverwalk follows the Manistee River from Jones Street, under the US-31 bridge, behind downtown, and ends at First Street beach.
Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes has miles of sand trails and hills, where hikers are rewarded at the end with spectacular views of Lake Michigan.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Standing tall and proud along the shores of Lake Michigan, Point Betsie marks the southern entrance to the Manitou Passage.