During our long weekend to Holland Michigan, we spent time at the Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk. The entrance is located adjacent to the Holland State Park. The entry to the Dune Boardwalk is free however, there is a two hour limit in the nearby parking lot. The towering dune is accessible via a boardwalk and stairs. We knew we would be climbing 275 steps so we wore our sturdy and comfortable walking shoes. The 275 step climb ascends 157 feet about Lake Michigan allowing for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, the Big Red Light House and even Lake Macatawa. It was certainly worth the climb on this beautiful day. The wooden structure marks the entrance to the boardwalk with maps and information of the area.
You can climb all 275 steps in one motion, or take a rest along the way at the little rest areas and over looks. It is a fairly easy 1/2 mile trail (once you make your way up the steps) that could be completed in less than 10 minutes. However, you will wait to take your time and enjoy the view. Along these rest areas, you can read about the history of Lake Michigan. I especially love that you get small glimpses of the Lake and the views that are yet to come. This definitely keeps the motivation to continue the climb to the top.
Mt. Pisgah Dune Climb & Boardwalk
“This site, established by the West Michigan Park Association in 1886, is made up of 58 acres that border a number of historic cottages and was once home to the Ottawa Beach Hotel. It includes 750 feet of Lake Michigan frontage, 2400 feet of Lake Macatawa shoreline and beautiful wooded dunes which are dispersed between the cottages and Holland State Park. Visitors are encouraged to make the climb up to Mt. Pisgah and enjoy the panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding areas.“
Hours:
March 1 through October 15: 7am to 10pm
October 16 through February 28: 7am to 8pm
Our visit was in the summer month of August, so the comfortable breeze coming off lake Michigan was wonderful. The Dune climb is over year round so you could experience all sorts of weather; be sure to dress accordingly. We finally made our way to the top of the Boardwalk and Wow! What an incredible view we experienced!
Public Parking is available at the Ottawa County parking lot; look for the signs that indicate Black Lake Boardwalk East. The trailhead will be about 800 feet east and across the road. We spent about one hour or so enjoying the scenery and talking with fellow climbers. There are also benches for just sitting and taking it all in. Be sure to stop and smell the fresh Lake air.
When looking for lodging in the Holland Michigan area, read about our wonderful experience with the Holiday Inn Express here.
Travel on and Sharon the Moments
