For generations, the journey to Big Sable Point Lighthouse has been part of the Mason County experience. But for many visitors, the long walk through shifting sand could be difficult to navigate, limiting access to one of the area’s most beloved destinations and making ongoing maintenance an annual challenge. 

This spring, that experience improved thanks to a collaborative effort led by Lakeshore Keepers. With support from a grant made possible by the Mason County Funds for the Community at the Community Foundation for Mason County, partners worked together to prepare the Big Sable Point access trail for the 2026 season with a more durable surface designed to better withstand the elements while providing a firmer path for hikers, cyclists, and those who need a more stable walking surface. 

The project brought together Lakeshore Keepers, Ludington State Park, and the Michigan National Guard, whose training exercises helped prepare the trail for the season. The partnership also led to an important improvement for the future. Based on recommendations from Ludington State Park, the team used slag gravel in one of the trail’s most challenging sections, creating a firmer, longer-lasting surface that will help extend the life of the trail despite the constant winds and shifting sand. 

“Collaboration is always better than doing a task alone,” said Jack Greve, executive director of Lakeshore Keepers. 

The impact of the improvements reaches far beyond the trail itself. A more accessible path allows more residents and visitors to experience one of Mason County’s most iconic places, supporting outdoor recreation while helping preserve a treasured community asset. Throughout the 2026 season, Lakeshore Keepers will evaluate how well the improved trail performs, using what they learn to guide future maintenance and ensure continued access for years to come. 

Projects like this reflect the Community Foundation’s commitment to strengthening recreation and quality of life throughout Mason County. By investing in improvements that make outdoor spaces more welcoming and accessible, grants from the Community Foundation help special places like Big Sable Point Lighthouse remain destinations where people of all ages and abilities can create lasting memories.