Silverlake Sand Dunes / Hart
Attractions
Little Sable Point Lighthouse State Park
Take advantage of a visit to Little Sable Point Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse on Lake Michigan. Located in Oceana County, Little Sable Point Lighthouse was completed in 1874 and is considered a “must see” by most visitors. The view from the top is spectacular and well worth the 115 foot climb. Looking for a real treat? Little Sable Point Lighthouse is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, a breathtaking Lake Michigan sunset, or both. The lighthouse is open daily from late May through the middle of September, and the admission fee is nominal.
Hart Historic District
Visit Hart Historic District and discover numerous historical exhibits and buildings. Tour a restored 19th century church, which also holds weddings, a one room school house, log cabin, flour mill, and Chief Cobmoosa’s house. You can enjoy an animated doll display, antique fishing equipment, and the extensive and unique “Seymour Rider Indian Artifacts Collection” making it well worth your trip. Make plans to visit during the Annual Heritage Day Celebration including live entertainment, kid’s games, arts and crafts, pig roast, and much more.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes State Park
Enjoy a natural phenomenon that attracts over a million visitors each year. You may be amazed to know that the remarkable sand dunes consist of nearly 2,000 acres of rolling sand hills stretching 1.5 miles wide and 3 miles long bordering Lake Michigan and Silver Lake. The Silver Lake Sand Dunes are still moving and growing while considered one of the largest deposits of living dunes on the shores of Lake Michigan. The dunes are divided into three sections: the northern area is reserved for off-road vehicles, the center region is for hikers, and the southern area is leased to Mac Wood’s Dune Rides. Experience Silver Lake Sand Dunes, the only dunes east of Utah where you can drive a private motorized vehicle! Dune vehicle rentals are available. Open April 1 through October 31.
Mac Woods Dune Rides
Your trip to the Dunes area wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Mac Wood’s Dune Rides founded in 1930. Open for the 89th season May through early October. Enjoy a safe, fun-filled seven mile dune ride over the magnificent Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Your 40 minute ride will be hosted by a knowledgeable driver who understands the history and environment of the ever changing sand dunes. Your exciting ride will also include climbing up the summit, breathtaking panoramic views of the dune area, splashing along Lake Michigan, and driving past sparkling Silver Lake. Visitors of all ages enjoy this scenic ride and return for generations!
Hart to Montague Trail State Park
Come visit this paved 22 mile long trail perfect for bikers, walkers, and runners. A former railroad with trains passing through rural forested lands, now transformed into a scenic wonderland perfect for those who love the outdoors. You can snap a photo at one of the many scenic overlooks, indulge in a picnic lunch at one of the rest areas, or stop by one of the many shops along the way to pick up your favorite ice cream treat. Enjoy fresh air, wildlife, and great exercise for the whole family!
John Gurney Park
Experience one of Hart’s best kept secrets. John Gurney Park was one of several auto tourist camps developed along the West Michigan Pike during the 1920’s to meet the rising need for accommodations among automobile travelers. Today you can still enjoy camping in this park nestled along Hart Lake with a beautiful beach, great fishing, perfect picnic facilities, a children’s play area, restroom facilities, boat launch, and all within walking distance from historic downtown Hart. John Gurney Park has a lot of history and is a “must see” next time you are in the dunes area.
