Exploring Saugatuck Dunes State Park
Just minutes from downtown, yet a world away from the bustle of shops and streets, Saugatuck Dunes State Park is a peaceful escape where you can take a break from the hurry of life and enjoy nature at your own pace. With over 1,000 acres of protected land, this coastal retreat offers some of the most peaceful hiking in Michigan, perfect for those craving fresh air, lake views, and time to reconnect.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just passing through, an afternoon at the dunes is one of the most rewarding things to do in Saugatuck.
Top Things to Do at Saugatuck Dunes State Park
What sets this park apart is its natural simplicity. You’ll find 2.5 miles of undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline, gently rolling dunes, and dense hardwood forest, all within a short drive from town. It’s quiet, low-key, and completely unplugged. No food stands, no boardwalks; just picnic tables, trail markers, and the sound of waves beyond the trees.
Hike the Trails
Hiking in Michigan comes with plenty of variety, but there’s something about this park’s quiet sandy paths and breezy forest loops that feels especially rewarding.
There are four main trails, each offering a slightly different perspective of the park’s 1,000+ acres. The most direct route to the beach is the Beach Trail (Yellow), a 0.75-mile one-way path (1.5 miles round-trip) that’s perfect if you're short on time or want a quick walk to the water. It’s sandy and sun-dappled, with enough gentle elevation to feel like you’ve earned your lake view by the time you arrive.
For something a little longer but still approachable, the Livingston Trail (Red) and the North Trail (White) each offer 2.5-mile loops through quiet, wooded terrain and open dunes. These routes are ideal for a late morning stroll or a shaded afternoon escape.
If you're up for more of a challenge, the South Trail (Blue) spans 5.5 miles and delivers a satisfying mix of dune climbs, forested sections, and sweeping lake views.
Patty Birkholz Natural Area
One of the park’s most meaningful features is the 300-acre Patty Birkholz Natural Area, named in honor of the late state senator and lifelong conservation advocate. This section protects a rare coastal dune system and several endangered plant species. It’s a beautiful reminder of Michigan’s natural heritage and the people who’ve helped preserve it.
A Quiet Stretch of Shoreline for Picnics and Treasure Hunting
Once you reach the water, you’ll understand why this beach is a favorite among locals. There are no buildings except for a small picnic shelter, and the lack of development makes the lake feel even more expansive. The sand is soft, the views stretch for miles, and there’s often more birdsong than conversation. Lay out a towel, dip your feet in the cool water, or stay a while and watch the light change on the lake.
If you’ve worked up an appetite on the trails, the beach is a perfect place to refuel. Pack a picnic and settle in at one of the covered tables or spread out a blanket on the sand for an easy lakeside lunch.
It’s also a popular area for metal detecting, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the beach is calm and the shifting sands occasionally reveal a hidden surprise. Be sure to check the current park guidelines and stay within permitted zones.
Wildlife Watching and Photography Moments
Nature lovers will find no shortage of photo-worthy scenes here. The contrast of soft dune grass, bright wildflowers, and the open blue of the lake creates striking compositions all day long. Birdwatchers, bring your binoculars. Warblers, woodpeckers, and even bald eagles are known to frequent the area.
The ever-changing shape of the dunes makes each visit feel different, and the lighting around sunrise or sunset is especially beautiful. Whether you’re shooting with a phone or a DSLR, this park offers that rare mix of wide-open vistas and intimate forest detail that photographers love.
Extend Your Adventure: Nearby Trails and Fun
If you want to keep exploring, head next door to the Felt Estate or Shore Acres Township Park, where you’ll find a 2-mile mountain biking trail, a disc golf course, and more access points to the Saugatuck Dunes trail system. It’s an easy way to add a little variety to your day without leaving the area.
Tips for Your Visit to the Dunes
It’s always smart to be prepared, especially when trails wind through shifting terrain. Wear sturdy shoes with good tread as the sand can be uneven and soft in places. Bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray, especially in warmer months.
While bikes aren’t allowed on the trails, pets are welcome along the entire Lake Michigan shoreline as long as they’re on a six-foot leash and under your immediate control. Be sure to clean up after them and dispose of pet waste in the provided trash receptacles.
Parking is free with a Michigan Recreation Passport, and restrooms are available near the trailhead.
End Your Day at a Luxury Saugatuck Hotel
After a morning of hiking through the dunes and soaking up the shoreline views, there’s nothing better than returning to your luxury Saugatuck Hotel. Soak in the whirlpool tub, enjoy a sweet dessert delivered to your room, or recount the day under the stars on your private deck. We’re just a short drive from the park, making your outdoor adventure a perfect complement to a luxurious weekend getaway.
Whether you're chasing scenic trails, craving some solitude by the lake, or simply looking for one of the best things to do in Saugatuck, a visit to Saugatuck Dunes State Park will leave you refreshed, inspired, and maybe a little sandy, in the best possible way.
Plan your outdoor escape today and book your stay at The Hotel Saugatuck, where luxury and nature go hand in hand.
