Big Sable Point

Over Memorial Day weekend, I had the joy of returning to Ludington. This time, I truly fell in love with Ludington State Park. Between the half-mile Skyline Trail’s stunning dune vistas (look for a photo on Wednesday), the beautiful Lake Michigan beach, and the historically striking views at the end a two mile hike on the Lighthouse Trail. After this visit, I am making plans to return for a camping trip. The Jack Pine campground is a hike-in campground (meaning no road access) halfway to the lighthouse. This is a wonderful opportunity for photographers, because I would be able to stay at the park later (the day use areas close at 10) to capture the sunset and night sky at the lighthouse.

About the Photo:
This photo was a single RAW exposure with basic edits done in Lightroom. I really wanted to the catch sunset at the lighthouse, but, as I mentioned above, the day use areas (read parking lot) close at 10:00 and in the summer, the sun sets on Michigan’s west coast after 9:00, leaving very little time to get our shots, hike two miles, and get back to the car before they close the gate. So, if you want to get a true sunset shot, visit in the winter or camp in the park (there are several modern camping options in the park if you don’t want to carry in all your gear, but you would have more walking from the lighthouse than the hike in campground).

Camera Gear:
Nikon D3100 with 18-55 kit lens handheld

Date Taken:
May 29, 2016

Thanks for stopping by! If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page.  I have started my summer photo a day project again this year. To make sure you don’t miss a single day, follow me on Instagram, and Flickr! To plan your visit to Ludington State Park visit the Michigan DNR or VisitLudington.com.