Explore the Outdoors at Hoffmaster State Park

Michigan has more than 100 state parks, forests and trails offering plenty of adventures for those looking to get away from it all in the great outdoors. But if you're looking for sugar-sand beaches, wooded hiking trails and gorgeous lake views all in one spot, then we suggest heading to P.J. Hoffmaster State Park here in Muskegon County. When you stay with us at The Pidge Inn, plan some time to explore this amazing park, located just 20-minutes to our south.

To get the lay of the land, start at the Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center. This beautiful facility, facing a towering sand dune, is recognized as one of the top attractions in the Midwest. The center provides interpretations of dune ecology through a variety of programs to help visitors enjoy and understand the unique environment of the sand dunes of the Great Lakes. Weekend explorer programs run from Memorial Day through Labor Day. These nature-based programs include everything from wildflower walks to lessons on native fish, snakes and bats.

From there, the state park is your playground, with 1,100 acres of forest-covered sand dunes to explore. Wander on 10 miles of well-marked trails. Climb sand dunes along the lake. One of the main attractions at Hoffmaster State Park is the Dune Overlook Trail. The half-mile trail leads hikers to a 200-step stairway to the overlook observation platform. At the top, hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the dunes, the beach and Lake Michigan.

Dune climbing is a great workout, and you can jump in the lake to cool off at the end. The beach at Hoffmaster State Park, with its pristine sand and inviting blue water, stretches 3 miles along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. There's plenty of room to spread out, even on the busiest summer days. There are two designated swimming areas within the park, and two beach houses provide changing areas and restrooms.

Not planning on visiting Muskegon County until the fall or winter?  No worries!  The state park also offers snow shoeing and cross-country skiing for those looking to explore the dunes and scenic outdoors in the chillier months.

Be sure to get your recreation passport, which is required to enter all of Michigan's state parks. The pass gives you access to all of our state parks for an entire year, giving you another great reason to keep coming back to visit us time and time again.

P.J. Hoffmaster State Park
6585 Lake Harbor Road                    
Muskegon, MI 49441