Exploring Ludington by bike has never been more fun! Learn how to plan your Northern Michigan biking adventure along with where to stop, where to eat and some trail tips.
“Why haven’t we been here before?” My wife and I kept asking ourselves this as the quaint town of Ludington unfolded before us while the steady cadence of our bikes carried us through the lakeside town.
We arrived in Ludington on a bright sunny day as the town hummed with the bliss of summer in Northern Michigan—barefoot kids waiting in line for ice cream, soccer practice in the park and dozens of people bobbing in the warm waters of Lake Michigan. We had heard about a scenic bike route from downtown to Ludington State Park on M-116 and decided to see it for ourselves.
Once we unpacked and got settled at Stearns Park, our first stop was Spindrift Cyclesports. We grabbed a cup of coffee while the mechanics tuned bikes and trued wheels. Dave, the owner, answered our questions and provided some route suggestions.
Photo by Grant Piering
Ludington, it turns out, is a biker’s paradise, and Dave was excited to share a trail map filled with riding options in the area for families, mountain bikers and beyond. More than just an impressive trail network, this town has a community of dedicated volunteers to make sure the trails are constantly expanding and well maintained.
Mountain bikers will find eight miles of single-track trails at Ludington School Forest and a winding network of trails just outside city limits. They didn’t forget about gravel riders, winter fat bikers or bikepackers either; no matter the time of year or type of bike, you’ll find a trail for it. For road bikers, countless options throughout the countryside provide views of farms, lakes, rivers and more. Bike route maps and more information can be found on the Pure Ludington website.
Free booklets are also available at Spindrift Cyclesports, outlining an array of riding opportunities.
Photo by Grant Piering
We left the shop feeling inspired. In many towns, it’s too easy to hop in a car to run errands, even when it’s safe and fun to ride a bike. As lifelong bikers ourselves, we were encouraged to see a place so committed to providing access to trails and spearheading the importance of outdoor recreation via two wheels.
Once we finally hit the pavement, a smooth and wide shoulder guided us north as Lake Michigan revealed herself just outside of town. Here, the road hugs the coastline where freshwater glistens on the left behind dune grass and birch trees, while on the right, continuous sand dunes tower over the landscape.
We traded glances from the dunes to the lakeshore for the next five miles, reminded of the freshwater fortune that surrounds most of our wonderful state. A bike ride through new landscapes and unfamiliar neighborhoods unveils the character of a region at the kind of leisurely pace a car ride just can’t provide. Every time we ride somewhere new, we are reminded that this is why we bring our bikes everywhere. Besides, food and beer just taste better when you ride your bike to get them.
Photo by Grant Piering
Related Read: Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Ludington State Park.
Once we arrived at Ludington State Park, we peddled on to Big Sable Point Lighthouse. The 1.8-mile trail that takes you there is a mix of sand and gravel. If you’re not comfortable riding out to the lighthouse, the walk is worth it. Once you round the corner and see the classic black and white structure that has guided sailors and boats since 1867, you’ll be glad you did.
We continued to explore the state park via the paved biking routes that stitch through wetlands, dunes and hardwood forests. With more than 5,000 acres of protected land, it provides a sanctuary for curious minds that need to hit reset. Amenities are limited at Ludington State Park though, so when it’s time to eat, head back to town on the same route.
Photo by Grant Piering
Related Read: Sip Like a Local: Benzie, Ludington & Manistee.
A northerly tailwind with a slight chill whisked us back into Ludington as the light faded and the dunes turned amber. We stopped by Ludington Bay Brewing to end the day’s adventure; with local beer on tap and a great menu, it was the perfect place to unwind.
And what’s a day peddling around a new town without ice cream? After packing up our bikes, we pulled into an ice cream shop with dim lights and an empty parking lot. As I shifted the car into reverse, the owner popped his head out to apologize. “Sorry folks, we just shut everything down,” he said. “But I can grab anything you’d like from the freezer. Since the registers are closed, these are on me.”
We drove home with sticky hands and tired legs, grateful for these long summer days and beautiful places to spend them in.
Photo by Grant Piering
As the light faded and we headed north, we reflected on our time in Ludington and how each individual experience combined to make it so memorable. We found the caffeine and information we needed at the bike shop from the passionate owner and ended the night with someone going out of their way to make sure we could enjoy a sweet treat, even if it cost them money. In between, we found the stunning scenery, bike trails and craft beer we came for.
We only spent a few hours discovering this small town, and it left a lasting impression. I can only imagine what we’d come away with after a few days. See you soon, Ludington.
Photo by Grant Piering
Plan Your Biking Day Trip to Ludington
Where to Park in Ludington | Stearns Park
Begin your ride at this lakeside park (access off N. Lakeshore Drive) with 2,500 feet of sandy shoreline, picnic tables, grills, a playground, bathrooms and plenty of parking spaces.
Where to Ride | Stearns Park to Ludington State Park
The route from Stearns Park to Ludington State Park is a 13-mile round trip ride. Add 1.5 miles for the Cartier Park detour and another 3.6 miles if you ride or walk to the lighthouse. Riding the paved path in the state park connecting the Hamlin day-use area to Lake Michigan will add another mile. Bikes are not allowed on any unpaved foot trails (except for the lighthouse trail) or cross-country ski trails in the state park.
Directions: From Stearns Park, head north on M-116 (N. Lakeshore Drive). In about a mile, turn right on Slagle Avenue and right again on Plank Avenue for a quick detour through Cartier Park (optional). Cartier Park is an 80-acre natural area with a winding path through a hardwood forest. Retrace your route back to M-116 and keep heading north until you arrive at Ludington State Park, about 5.5 miles.
Tip: Ride or walk 1.8 miles of gravel and sand to Big Sable Point Lighthouse. The trail leaves from the Pines Campground on the north side of the park.
Tip: Ride the paved bike trail that runs along the Big Sable River linking the campgrounds to Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake day-use areas. Trail maps and information can be found at the entrance gate of the park or online at michigan.gov/dnr.
Where to Eat & Drink in Ludington
Spindrift Cyclesports | 102 W. Ludington Ave.
This coffee bar features locally roasted coffee beans from Roaster Jack Coffee Co., espresso drinks and tea from Light of Day Organics.
Ludington Bay Brewing | 515 S. James St.
The brewery has 20-24 beers on tap daily, a delish food menu (burgers, pizza, pulled pork tacos), lots of patio seating and an energetic atmosphere.
Photo by Grant Piering
Sam Brown writes from Empire where the land, lakes and people inspire his writing. Tag along with his outdoor pursuits on Instagram @gnarggles.
Grant Piering is a Traverse City-based adventure-lifestyle photographer and videographer showcasing organic experiences and memories. grantpiering.com