The West Michigan Water Trail extends from the Lake Michigan Recreation Area north of Ludington (Mason County) to Buchanan Park south of Grand Haven (Ottawa County). The water trail lies within portions of Mason, Oceana, Muskegon, Kent and Ottawa counties. West Michigan's 90-mile stretch of Lake Michigan coastline features popular swimming beaches and large sand dunes, forests, wetlands, lakes and streams. Lake Michigan provides access to 12 major river systems, scenic lakes, harbors, natural areas, working waterfronts, and federally designated wild and scenic rivers. The Grand River (Michigan’s longest) and the Muskegon River (Michigan’s second longest) enter Lake Michigan through West Michigan.
Twelve major river systems provide access to regional water trails. There are many public and private access sites on West Michigan water bodies:
Lower Grand River, Rogue River, Spring Lake, Mona Lake, Muskegon River, Muskegon Lake, Bear
The Lake Michigan Water Trail - West includes:
• 134 public access sites available for paddlers
• 20 public campgrounds located at shoreline access sites