Live White Lake. Explore it.
By Stephanie Ware, Contributing Writer
Some bucket list locations are one-and-done vacation spots. Others have a way of pulling you back, again and again. It’s the charm, the adventure, and maybe even a little bit of magic that makes you start planning your next visit before you’ve even left. The White Lake Area, made up of the sister communities of Montague & Whitehall, is one of those locations. Not meant to merely check of on a list, but to experience again. Around here, you’ll notice the phrase “Live White Lake” everywhere you go. It isn’t just a slogan. It’s a way of embracing everything this area has to offer.
Experience White Lake. Hike White Lake. Dine White Lake. Bike White Lake. Ride White Lake. The White Lake “It” is whatever you want it to be, and out here, it’s an entire mindset.
Here in the White Lake Area, you can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you want to be. You can chase an adrenaline rush or strive for some time to unwind. Whatever your preference, the natural resources the area has to ofer can provide whatever form of adventure you’re seeking.
Those seeking time outdoors will love the miles and miles of paved trails, the waterways, and the parks. Spend the morning paddling the White River, pedal beneath the shade of the trees in the afternoon, and finish the day watching the sun dip into Lake Michigan. Fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking, birding, and even hanging out in a hammock in a quiet place–all of that can be found in Montague and Whitehall. Here, there’s still room to spread out on the beach, take your time on the trails, and enjoy the water at your own pace.
With White Lake, White River, Duck Lake, and Lake Michigan herself, the White Lake Area is not short on water. With several great spots to launch a kayak, boat, fish, or go tubing, you could plan a whole trip around the water and see it all from a new spot each time. From quiet stretches of river to open water on Lake Michigan, every launch ofers a diferent perspective. Launch your own boat or kayak, or let a local outfitter help you get out on the water. Whether you’re looking for a guided fishing charter, a pontoon rental, or a peaceful paddle, you’ll find plenty of ways to experience the lakes and rivers.
While the water is beautiful and there is plenty of it in the White Lake Area, no outdoor adventure is complete without some time spent on the trails. Our incredible, scenic, and paved trails set the White Lake Area apart from other coastal communities. The William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail, also considered a state park, stretches 23 miles north from Montague. The White Lake Pathway includes art sculptures along the way, and turns into the Berry Junction Trail headed south into Muskegon. Other great trails can be found at Clear Springs Nature Preserve, Duck Creek Trails, and Duck Lake State Park.
If you’re looking for outdoors but more relaxed, some of the best parks are waiting for you, complete with water views. Montague has stunning Lake Michigan views at Meinert County Park and Medbery Park. Medbery Park sits on the channel from White Lake into Lake Michigan, with beach access on Lake Michigan. The White Lake Channel is a favorite place to watch boats and those fishing make their way between White Lake and Lake Michigan. Just across the channel stands the historic White River Light Station, which has welcomed mariners to the area for more than 150 years and remains one of the White Lake Area’s most recognizable landmarks. Whether you’re walking the shoreline or simply taking in the view, it’s the perfect place to end the day with one of West Michigan’s famous sunsets over Lake Michigan. Meinert County Park is a favorite for both locals and visitors to enjoy bird watching and beach time. Svensson Park in Whitehall is a great spot to hang a hammock and have a picnic, and is also a local favorite to launch a kayak. Goodrich Park in Whitehall has a beautiful gazebo, shaded trees, a playground, and splash pad, making it a perfect family park for all ages.
One of the best parts of the White Lake Area is how close everything is. In just a few minutes, you can go from strolling our downtowns to biking a trail, launching a kayak, or watching the sunset on Lake Michigan. The communities of Montague and Whitehall have walkable downtowns with direct access to the bike trail, meaning you can park in one community and walk from one to the other to experience them both. The downtown areas have everything from dining and shopping to art galleries and unique gift finds. Right in downtown Montague is the world’s largest working weathervane, which is also a favorite photo op spot. In downtown Whitehall, visit the community firepit in the N Mears Promenade, overlooking White River and White Lake. Both downtowns are home to social districts for those 21+ who want to enjoy a drink outdoors.
However you choose to spend your time here, you’ll quickly understand why so many visitors find themselves returning year after year. Live White Lake. Explore it. Fish it. Hike it. Bike it. Boat it. Experience it. White Lake is it. Start planning your visit at www.whitelake.org. •
