Escape to Nature Along the Art Coast®
From rolling dunes to lush forests and protected wetlands, the Art Coast is a nature lover’s dream. Whether you’re in town for the day or have a long weekend to enjoy, these outdoor adventures will take you hiking across scenic trails, paddling the shoreline, or watching for wildlife in quiet preserves. Each day brings a fresh opportunity to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect with nature.
Day 1: Among the Dunes
Few places offer a more diverse ecosystem—or a wider array of outdoor activities—than Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Home to 2.5 miles of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline, 200-foot tall wooded dunes, dense forest, and 13 miles of trails, it’s easy to spend the entire day exploring this natural wonder.
For a quick beach outing to picnic or swim, follow the scenic Yellow Beach Trail. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, tackle the 5.5-mile South Trail loop, which winds through the 300-acre Patricia Birkholz Natural Area. This rare preserve, championed by the late state senator Birkholz, protects a coastal dune system and three endangered plant species.
Don’t miss the nearby Shore Acres Township Park, which features a two-mile mountain bike trail, disc golf course, and views of the historic Felt Estate. Need to rent a bike? Big Lake Outfitters, Blue Star Barns Coffee & Bikes, and In the Elements Rentals will set you up.
Day 2: On the Water
For a fresh perspective on the Art Coast’s flora and fauna, opt for an aquatic adventure. Book a guided or self-guided kayaking trip with Water Trail Ventures, located south of Saugatuck/Douglas in Fennville. During this trip, you’ll paddle through a scenic section of the Kalamazoo River, where you can explore protected wetlands and forested shorelines.
If an open-water excursion is more your speed, embark on the Lake Michigan Water Trail Southwest, a 10.3-mile route from Oval Beach in Douglas to Tunnel Park near Holland. Both Big Lake Outfitters and In the Elements Rentals will deliver kayaks directly to your launch site or at your vacation rental.
For a slower pace, rent a paddleboard from Third Coast Paddling at Wade’s Bayou in downtown Douglas. Drift among the lily pads, watch for herons and cranes, and enjoy a spectacular sunset reflected in the bayou’s calm waters.
Day 3: Through the Trails
Just before the entrance to Ox-Bow School of Art & Artists’ Residency lies Tallmadge Woods Nature Preserve, where forested dunes, emergent marshes, a winding river, and Lake Michigan shoreline weave a tapestry of habitats. To see these sites, hike the Crow’s Nest Trail, a 1.7-mile loop that begins on a low path, gradually rises to a bluff-top overlook, and descends along a ridge above the river.
While you’re in the area, check out the adjacent Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area, a 173-acre preserve with rolling dunes, wetlands, and remnants of the historic Fishtown pier. Its trails reveal long stretches of Lake Michigan shoreline and offer prime viewing for migrating birds and butterflies.
Top off your day with a climb up Mt. Baldhead, a steep wooden stairway of more than 300 steps up a towering dune. The vantage point at the top—sweeping views of downtown Saugatuck, the Kalamazoo River, and Lake Michigan—is worth the exercise. When you’re ready for a breather, head down the western side of the trail and relax at Oval Beach.
Day 4: Into the Wild
Decided to stay for an extra day? Take a drive out to Saugatuck Wilds Nature Preserve, a 169-acre park located along the Kalamazoo River Greenway. Originally designated as an airport, this expansive property includes two trailheads, Red Pine and Mayapple, that wind through pines, oaks, and hemlocks. During your visit, you’ll explore diverse ecosystems including mature forests, floodplain woodlands, a biologically rich river corridor, vernal pools, and wetlands—all perfect for birdwatching.
To commemorate your time exploring the Art Coast’s many natural wonders, treat yourself to an outdoor-inspired gift from one of the area’s many shops and galleries. At Woosah Outfitters in Douglas, discover naturally inspired hand-carved woodblock graphics on t-shirts, hats, woven blankets, and more. Stock up on outdoor clothing brands, including Patagonia®, Kuhl®, and Free Fly, at Landsharks in downtown Saugatuck. Or bring home your favorite Art Coast vista from painter James Brandess, whose beautiful local landscapes are available on canvas or as prints, notecards, or bookmarks at his Saugatuck gallery.
