Winter Activities in Silver Lake, Michigan

Winter Activities in Silver Lake, Michigan
Photo Credit snowmobile 2 image by Przemyslaw Moranski from Fotolia.com

In Silver Lake, Michigan, and the nearby town of Ludington, there is plenty of winter recreation. Whether you enjoy the speed of a snowmobile or the peace and quiet of cross-country skiing in the backcountry, you can find what you want in Silver Lake. Silver Lake Park is located on Lake Michigan and covered in dunes, while Ludington Park offers serene and wooded terrain.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobilers looking for a backcountry experience will love the trails around Silver Lake. The most popular trail is the Hart-Montague Bike Trail. It is 22.5 miles long and passes through multiple towns like Hart, Montague and Rothbury, where you can stop for some refreshment. With easy access and flat terrain, it is great for any level of snowmobiler. You also can snowmobile on the Silver Lake OTV Trail.

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing at Silver Lake is a favorite wintertime activity. Be prepared for harsh winter conditions, including wind, and plan to get to the lake early for a good spot. Toss in your line, and try for a northern pike, walleye and bass about 10 to 20 feet below the surface.

Snowshoeing

Miles and miles of snowshoe trails await you at Ludington State Park. Snowshoers can make tracks off to the side of the 16 miles of groomed cross-country ski tracks or can make their own trail through the trees. There are guided snowshoe tours throughout the winter, with rentals at a first-come, first-served basis available at the park. There is a daily pass fee for the park.

Cross-Country Skiing

There are cross-country skiing opportunities at Ludington State Park and on the Hart-Montague Trail. Ludington has more than 16 miles of groomed terrain that is peaceful and quiet. The Hart-Montague trail is 22 miles long, but you will have to share the trail with snowmobiles. You can stop at one of the many towns on your way to warm up. Both places are great for skiers of all abilities. There is a day usage fee for Ludington State Park.

Winter Hiking

Just because there is snow on the ground doesn't mean you can't hike. Summer hiking trails look quite different in the winter, covered in a blanket of white. Climb up the Silver Lake Sand Dunes for a different view. You can hike any of the established trails at Ludington State Park for a day usage fee.

References

Article reviewed by Alison Gaynor Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

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