At a Glance
- Approximate address: 462 N Scenic Dr, Muskegon, MI 49445
- A hidden gem tucked behind tall dune hills, Lost Lake is a botanical treasure with plants found in both bog and coastal plain marsh habitats. An unpaved trail leads around Lost Lake, easily accessed from the Snug Harbor parking lot. A wheelchair-accessible trail from the Winter Sports Complex leads to an accessible overlook and viewing scope on the wetland’s north side.
- Trail length: 3 miles
- For more information, visit the Muskegon State Park website or see the cross country ski trails on the Winter Sports Complex website.
Visitor Information
Located in Laketon Township in Muskegon County, visitors can access Lost Lake in two ways:
- From Snug Harbor at 3560 Memorial Drive.
- From the Winter Sports Complex at 462 N Scenic Drive.
What to See
Muskegon State Park stretches for 1000 acres along the Lake Michigan shoreline. But visitors who venture inland to the portion of the park known as “Lost Lake” will be rewarded with a peaceful hidden gem beyond the dune hills. There are several trails that lead to Lost Lake, including a trail leading from the park headquarters and trails from the Winter Sports Complex. This area offers excellent opportunities for hiking during the warmer months and cross country skiing in the winter. As you hike around Lost Lake, look closely and you may see the carnivorous pitcher plant (which gets nutrients from insects trapped in its “pitcher”).
Conservation Value
“Lost Lake” is actually not a lake at all. Rather, it is a rare coastal plain marsh. In addition to wetlands, this area of the park is also heavily forested. Lost Lake is home to unique plants, waterfowl, and shorebirds.
History
The Land Conservancy worked with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to permanently protect Lost Lake in 2008 and add the property to Muskegon State Park. Funding for the park addition was provided by more than 350 individuals and organizations, including the Alcoa Foundation which provided a $50,000 grant.
