{"id":358891,"date":"2026-07-30T19:28:22","date_gmt":"2026-07-30T19:28:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/peraltafinancing.com\/uncategorized\/what-you-need-to-know-33\/"},"modified":"2026-07-30T19:28:22","modified_gmt":"2026-07-30T19:28:22","slug":"what-you-need-to-know-33","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891","title":{"rendered":"What You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just west of the charming Michigan town of Saugatuck and on the opposite side of the Kalamazoo River, you can climb Mount Baldhead. This 1-mile out-and-back trail, between the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, includes 303 stairs to the top of Mount Baldhead, a towering dune rising about 800 feet above sea level. At its peak, you can look out from its observation deck for a peek-a-boo view through the trees to the town and Lake Kalamazoo below. Walking down the back end of the dune takes you along a sandy path to award-winning Oval Beach.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Climbing Mount Baldhead is a fun challenge for hikers and walkers on a short trail. Whether you\u2019re a seasoned hiker or just looking for an outdoor adventure, this experience is a must-do for the area and one I recommend in this <a href=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/saugatuck-things-to-do\/\">Saugatuck activities guide<\/a>. Below, and as a repeat Saugatuck visitor for over ten years, I share everything you need to know to hike Mount Baldhead, along with some essential tips to help you make the most of your experience.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/pinterest-hike-mount-baldhead-in-saugatuck-michigan.webp\" alt=\"Pinterest pin image for Gather and Go Travel article &quot;Hiking Mt. Baldhead in Saugatuck, MI: What You Need to Know&quot;\" class=\"wp-image-55123 lazyload\"\/><img fetchpriority=\"high\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/pinterest-hike-mount-baldhead-in-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=600%2C900&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Pinterest pin image for Gather and Go Travel article &quot;Hiking Mt. Baldhead in Saugatuck, MI: What You Need to Know&quot;\" class=\"wp-image-55123 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/pinterest-hike-mount-baldhead-in-saugatuck-michigan.webp?w=600&amp;ssl=1 600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/pinterest-hike-mount-baldhead-in-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"Mount_Baldhead_A_brief_history\"><br \/><strong>Mount Baldhead: A brief history.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This dune, shaped by wind and erosion, has been a landmark for centuries. Its originally bare\u2014now more tree-covered\u2014sandy summit earned it the nickname \u201cBaldhead.\u201d Then, in the 1950s, it became home to its still present bulbous radar tower, an intact leftover from the Cold War era threat of the Soviet Union. Over the years, the area around the dune has developed into a hiking spot for the nearby towns of Saugatuck and Douglas, known for their art scenes, <a href=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/best-saugatuck-restaurants-michigan\/\">farm-to-table eateries<\/a>, charming main streets, and beautiful beaches like <a href=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/oval-beach-in-the-fall\/\">Oval Beach<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/douglas-beach-park-mi\/\">Douglas Beach Park<\/a>, or in <a href=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/saugatuck-dunes-state-park\/\">Saugatuck Dunes State Park<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"The_Climb_How_to_get_here_what_to_expect\"><br \/><strong>The Climb: How to get here &amp; what to expect.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Climbing Mount Baldhead is a relatively short but steep hike, offering natural beauty and a physical challenge. Begin the walk from its trailhead in Mount Baldhead Park, where you can immediately start climbing its 303-step wooden staircase.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/google-satellite-map-mount-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-michigan-1024x688.webp\" alt=\"Screenshot of a Google satellite map of the Mount Baldhead trail and park in Saugatuck, Michigan\" class=\"wp-image-55029 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/google-satellite-map-mount-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=800%2C538&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Screenshot of a Google satellite map of the Mount Baldhead trail and park in Saugatuck, Michigan\" class=\"wp-image-55029 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/google-satellite-map-mount-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=1024%2C688&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/google-satellite-map-mount-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=300%2C202&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/google-satellite-map-mount-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=768%2C516&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/google-satellite-map-mount-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-michigan.webp?w=1400&amp;ssl=1 1400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Take the Mount Baldhead trail to get to Oval Beach.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Find free gravel parking, a pavilion picnic area, and restrooms in Mount Baldhead Park on the west bank of the Kalamazoo River. Visitors also use this lot to visit the small Saugatuck-Douglas History Center across the street, in a historic pump house, and a picturesque spot on the river.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/kalamazoo-river-view-saugatuk-douglas-history-center-michigan-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"A pretty view of the Kalamazoo River next to the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center and the parking lot for Mount Baldhead Park in Saugatuck, Michigan\" class=\"wp-image-55033 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/kalamazoo-river-view-saugatuk-douglas-history-center-michigan.webp?resize=800%2C450&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"A pretty view of the Kalamazoo River next to the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center and the parking lot for Mount Baldhead Park in Saugatuck, Michigan\" class=\"wp-image-55033 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/kalamazoo-river-view-saugatuk-douglas-history-center-michigan.webp?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/kalamazoo-river-view-saugatuk-douglas-history-center-michigan.webp?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/kalamazoo-river-view-saugatuk-douglas-history-center-michigan.webp?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/kalamazoo-river-view-saugatuk-douglas-history-center-michigan.webp?w=1400&amp;ssl=1 1400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A serene Kalamazoo River view next to the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">See an AllTrails recording of our one-way walk to Oval Beach below. Our walk is slightly longer because we began from our lodging at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.holidayhillresort.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Holiday Hill Resort<\/a>, a three-minute walk from Mount Baldhead Park. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/explore\/recording\/afternoon-hike-at-mount-baldhead-and-oval-beach-loop-8487e01\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-saugatuck-michigan-hike-recording-alltrails-1024x420.webp\" alt=\"Screenshot of an AllTrails map recording of a a hike to Oval Beach along the Mount Baldhead Trail\" class=\"wp-image-55032 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"328\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-saugatuck-michigan-hike-recording-alltrails.webp?resize=800%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Screenshot of an AllTrails map recording of a a hike to Oval Beach along the Mount Baldhead Trail\" class=\"wp-image-55032 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-saugatuck-michigan-hike-recording-alltrails.webp?resize=1024%2C420&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-saugatuck-michigan-hike-recording-alltrails.webp?resize=300%2C123&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-saugatuck-michigan-hike-recording-alltrails.webp?resize=768%2C315&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-saugatuck-michigan-hike-recording-alltrails.webp?w=1400&amp;ssl=1 1400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">We started our hike from the Holiday Hill Resort, a few minutes from the trailhead.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Between Memorial and Labor Day, you can take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/thesaugatuckchainferry\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Saugatuck Chain Ferry<\/a> west across the river instead of driving to the Mount Baldhead trailhead. From where you disembark, it is less than a five-minute walk to Mount Baldhead Park.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"The_staircase\"><br \/><strong>The staircase.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 303-wooden step staircase begins this hike, is well-maintained, shaded with tree coverage, and features several rest platforms to catch your breath and to turn around to see how far you\u2019ve climbed. This walk up the stairs can quickly become strenuous, especially for little kids, the less fit, or on a hot day, but the effort is worth it.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"The_summit\"><strong>The summit.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the top of the stairs, there is a wooden observation deck. To the east, enjoy a birds-eye view of Saugatuck and Lake Kalamazoo, visible through a gap in the trees during summer and fall. To the west, you\u2019ll see the radar tower, and if you visit in the winter and spring when the tree cover is thinner, you may also see the vast expanse of Lake Michigan stretching to the horizon.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/view-of-sagautuck-from-mt-baldhead-michigan-1-1024x614.jpg\" alt=\"View of Saugatuck, Michigan, looking down from Mt. Baldhead\" class=\"wp-image-53735 lazyload\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/view-of-sagautuck-from-mt-baldhead-michigan-1.jpg?resize=800%2C480&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"View of Saugatuck, Michigan, looking down from Mt. Baldhead\" class=\"wp-image-53735 lazyload\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/view-of-sagautuck-from-mt-baldhead-michigan-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C614&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/view-of-sagautuck-from-mt-baldhead-michigan-1.jpg?resize=300%2C180&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/view-of-sagautuck-from-mt-baldhead-michigan-1.jpg?resize=768%2C461&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/view-of-sagautuck-from-mt-baldhead-michigan-1.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">View of Saugatuck from the summit.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-radar-station-saugatuck-michigan-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"Radar station at Mount Baldhead Park in Saugatuck, Michigan, on a clear blue summer day with no clouds\" class=\"wp-image-55045 lazyload\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-radar-station-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=800%2C450&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Radar station at Mount Baldhead Park in Saugatuck, Michigan, on a clear blue summer day with no clouds\" class=\"wp-image-55045 lazyload\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-radar-station-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-radar-station-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-radar-station-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-radar-station-saugatuck-michigan.webp?w=1400&amp;ssl=1 1400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Mount Baldhead radar station.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"The_descent\"><strong>The descent.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After you\u2019ve enjoyed the view, you have two options for descending. You can take the staircase back or follow the sandy trail down the western slope of the dune that leads directly to the parking area at Oval Beach. If you plan to do this, bring along sports sandals or flip-flops for your walk down if you are not already planning on wearing them. Otherwise, you will get sand everywhere in your sneakers and socks or hiking shoes. Or, you can remove your shoes entirely and walk down this sandy trail barefoot, which we did during a July visit.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/walking-sandy-downhill-mt-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-mi-1024x614.jpg\" alt=\"Walking down the sandy dune side of the Mt. Baldhead trail, heading to Oval Beach in Saugatuck, MI\" class=\"wp-image-53738 lazyload\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/walking-sandy-downhill-mt-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-mi.jpg?resize=800%2C480&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Walking down the sandy dune side of the Mt. Baldhead trail, heading to Oval Beach in Saugatuck, MI\" class=\"wp-image-53738 lazyload\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/walking-sandy-downhill-mt-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-mi.jpg?resize=1024%2C614&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/walking-sandy-downhill-mt-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-mi.jpg?resize=300%2C180&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/walking-sandy-downhill-mt-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-mi.jpg?resize=768%2C461&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/walking-sandy-downhill-mt-baldhead-trail-saugatuck-mi.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Walking barefoot down the shaded sandy section. The sand feels cool and nice here.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/unshaded-part-of-mount-baldhead-trail-to-oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan.webp\" alt=\"The sandy trail down to Oval Beach from Mount Baldhead in Saugatuck, Michigan on a clear blue July summer day\" class=\"wp-image-55042 lazyload\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/unshaded-part-of-mount-baldhead-trail-to-oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=800%2C450&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"The sandy trail down to Oval Beach from Mount Baldhead in Saugatuck, Michigan on a clear blue July summer day\" class=\"wp-image-55042 lazyload\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/unshaded-part-of-mount-baldhead-trail-to-oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan.webp?w=863&amp;ssl=1 863w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/unshaded-part-of-mount-baldhead-trail-to-oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/unshaded-part-of-mount-baldhead-trail-to-oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Shoes are back on, and the sand is scorching on this lower, unshaded part of the trail in the summer.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, know that the last portion of this trail is unshaded, and on hot, sunny summer days, the sand, even with sandals back on, starts to feel scorching to the point of being painful. It is essential to know this if you plan to do this walk with little kids or anyone with sensitive feet.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"The_return\"><br \/><strong>The return.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Congrats! You\u2019ve walked your way to beautiful Oval Beach! After some relaxation, soaking up the view, and resting by the water, you will want to head back. To return, you have two options. Retrace your steps on the same trail to your vehicle parked at Mount Baldhead Park, or in the summer months, catch the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/thesaugatuckchainferry\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Saugatuck Chain Ferry<\/a> back to town.<br \/>\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan-summer-2-1024x575.jpg\" alt=\"Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Michigan, in the summer on a clear blue day\" class=\"wp-image-53710 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"449\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan-summer-2.jpg?resize=800%2C449&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Michigan, in the summer on a clear blue day\" class=\"wp-image-53710 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan-summer-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan-summer-2.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan-summer-2.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan-summer-2.jpg?resize=1536%2C863&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/oval-beach-saugatuck-michigan-summer-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pretty Oval Beach on a clear blue July day with no clouds.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Alternatively, plan to pre-book a pickup from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.saugatuckinterurban.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Saugatuck Interurban<\/a>, a demand-response public bus. If you plan to walk back, know that hiking up a dune is more challenging than coming down. You\u2019ll walk uphill through the sand to the observation deck and back down the stairs. As two fit adults and a fit teenager, we found this walk doable and appreciated the exertion, but we did find it more tiring than we expected.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-sandy-section-of-trail-saugatuckm-michigan.webp\" alt=\"The sandy trail back up to Mount Baldhead in Saugatuck, Michigan on a clear blue July summer day\" class=\"wp-image-55030 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"875\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-sandy-section-of-trail-saugatuckm-michigan.webp?resize=700%2C875&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"The sandy trail back up to Mount Baldhead in Saugatuck, Michigan on a clear blue July summer day\" class=\"wp-image-55030 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-sandy-section-of-trail-saugatuckm-michigan.webp?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mount-baldhead-sandy-section-of-trail-saugatuckm-michigan.webp?resize=240%2C300&amp;ssl=1 240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Returning to the top of Mount Baldhead via the sandy trail.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/saugatuck-michigan-interurban-bus-driving-in-town.webp\" alt=\"Saugatuck, Michigan Interurban public bus driving through town on a sunny summer day\" class=\"wp-image-55049 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"875\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/saugatuck-michigan-interurban-bus-driving-in-town.webp?resize=700%2C875&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Saugatuck, Michigan Interurban public bus driving through town on a sunny summer day\" class=\"wp-image-55049 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/saugatuck-michigan-interurban-bus-driving-in-town.webp?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/saugatuck-michigan-interurban-bus-driving-in-town.webp?resize=240%2C300&amp;ssl=1 240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pre-schedule a pick-up with the Interurban if you prefer a ride back.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"More_hikes_to_do_in_the_area\"><strong>More hikes to do in the area.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While in the area, consider adding on two more hikes. First, while at Oval Beach, you can explore the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area trails that spur off the northernmost Oval Beach parking lots, including this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/ar\/trail\/us\/michigan\/saugatuck-harbor-natural-area-loop\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">2.7-mile loop route<\/a> perfect for Lake Michigan views. Or, from Mount Baldhead Park, walk 15 minutes northeast along very quiet Park Street, which runs parallel to the Kalamazoo River, to catch the <a href=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/crows-nest-trail\/\">Crow\u2019s Nest<\/a> trailhead to explore its<a href=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/crows-nest-trail\/\"> 2.6-mile loop route<\/a>. Alternatively, you can park at the small parking area near the trailhead just after Park Street curves toward the Ox-Bow School.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/saugatuck-natural-harbor-area-sign-michigan-oval-beach-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"Signage for the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area at Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Michigan on a summer day\" class=\"wp-image-55031 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/saugatuck-natural-harbor-area-sign-michigan-oval-beach.webp?resize=800%2C450&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Signage for the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area at Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Michigan on a summer day\" class=\"wp-image-55031 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/saugatuck-natural-harbor-area-sign-michigan-oval-beach.webp?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/saugatuck-natural-harbor-area-sign-michigan-oval-beach.webp?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/saugatuck-natural-harbor-area-sign-michigan-oval-beach.webp?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/saugatuck-natural-harbor-area-sign-michigan-oval-beach.webp?w=1400&amp;ssl=1 1400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Signage at Oval Beach for the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>If you love to hike, consider carving out time to visit Saugatuck Dunes State Park, an easy 15-minute drive from town. This <a href=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/saugatuck-dunes-state-park\/\">guide<\/a> gives you all the information about visiting the park and hiking its trails.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"5_things_to_know_before_climbing_Mount_Baldhead\"><br \/><strong>5 things to know before climbing Mount Baldhead.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While climbing Mount Baldhead is a straightforward hike, a few more insights and tips can help you prepare for your day and make the most of your adventure.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"1_It_might_help_you_avoid_traffic_to_Oval_Beach\"><strong>1. It might help you avoid traffic to Oval Beach.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On busy summer weekends, the traffic and vehicle lineup to find or wait for parking at Oval Beach can impossibly back up the entire length of Perryman Street to Park Street. If you walk to Oval Beach via the Mount Baldhead trail instead of driving, you can avoid the frustrating experience of wasting precious vacation time and a beautiful day stuck in traffic. And if you are staying in the town of Saugatuck during the summer, consider leaving your car behind altogether. If the weather is good and the Chain Ferry is operating (typically between Memorial Day and Labor Day, visit its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/thesaugatuckchainferry\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Facebook page<\/a> to confirm day-of schedules), take it across from Saugatuck and walk the few minutes to the Mount Baldhead trailhead.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/entrance-to-saugatuck-chain-ferry-kalamazoo-river-sauatuck-mi.jpg\" alt=\"Entrance to the Saugatuck Chain Ferry in Saugatuck, MI\" class=\"wp-image-53729 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/entrance-to-saugatuck-chain-ferry-kalamazoo-river-sauatuck-mi.jpg?resize=800%2C800&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Entrance to the Saugatuck Chain Ferry in Saugatuck, MI\" class=\"wp-image-53729 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/entrance-to-saugatuck-chain-ferry-kalamazoo-river-sauatuck-mi.jpg?w=800&amp;ssl=1 800w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/entrance-to-saugatuck-chain-ferry-kalamazoo-river-sauatuck-mi.jpg?resize=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/entrance-to-saugatuck-chain-ferry-kalamazoo-river-sauatuck-mi.jpg?resize=150%2C150&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/entrance-to-saugatuck-chain-ferry-kalamazoo-river-sauatuck-mi.jpg?resize=768%2C768&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Enter the Chain Ferry here when in downtown Saugatuck.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/saugatuck-chain-ferry-viewed-across-kalamazoo-river-saugatuck-mi.jpg\" alt=\"Saugatuck Chain Ferry viewed from opposite side of the Kalamazoo River on a sunny summer day in Saugatuck, MI\" class=\"wp-image-53730 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/saugatuck-chain-ferry-viewed-across-kalamazoo-river-saugatuck-mi.jpg?resize=800%2C800&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Saugatuck Chain Ferry viewed from opposite side of the Kalamazoo River on a sunny summer day in Saugatuck, MI\" class=\"wp-image-53730 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/saugatuck-chain-ferry-viewed-across-kalamazoo-river-saugatuck-mi.jpg?w=800&amp;ssl=1 800w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/saugatuck-chain-ferry-viewed-across-kalamazoo-river-saugatuck-mi.jpg?resize=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/saugatuck-chain-ferry-viewed-across-kalamazoo-river-saugatuck-mi.jpg?resize=150%2C150&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/saugatuck-chain-ferry-viewed-across-kalamazoo-river-saugatuck-mi.jpg?resize=768%2C768&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chain Ferry crossing the Kalamazoo River to reach the west bank.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>The parking lot at Mount Baldhead Park can also fill on busy summer weekends. As no alternative public parking exists in the area, keep this possibility in mind as you plan your day.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"2_Bring_water_snacks_and_beach_supplies\"><strong>2. Bring water, snacks, and beach supplies.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we recently hiked the Mount Baldhead trail in summer, we planned to include a few hours to swim and enjoy Oval Beach. With this in mind, we set out for our walk with daypacks stocked with water, premade picnic sandwiches and snacks bought from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.isabelsmarket.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Isabel\u2019s Market<\/a>, sunscreen, hats, a beach mat, and towels. <\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/oval-beach-picnic-tables-saugatuck-michigan.webp\" alt=\"Picnic tables on a sunny July day at Oval Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan next to the concession stand and with a a view of Lake Michigan\" class=\"wp-image-55036 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"875\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/oval-beach-picnic-tables-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=700%2C875&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Picnic tables on a sunny July day at Oval Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan next to the concession stand and with a a view of Lake Michigan\" class=\"wp-image-55036 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/oval-beach-picnic-tables-saugatuck-michigan.webp?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/oval-beach-picnic-tables-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=240%2C300&amp;ssl=1 240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Picnic tables overlooking Lake Michigan next to the Oval Beach concession.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/oval-beach-concession-stand-and-menu-summer-saugatuck-michigan.webp\" alt=\"Oval Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan, concession window and menus in summer\" class=\"wp-image-55035 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"875\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/oval-beach-concession-stand-and-menu-summer-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=700%2C875&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Oval Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan, concession window and menus in summer\" class=\"wp-image-55035 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/oval-beach-concession-stand-and-menu-summer-saugatuck-michigan.webp?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/oval-beach-concession-stand-and-menu-summer-saugatuck-michigan.webp?resize=240%2C300&amp;ssl=1 240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Oval Beach concession is open from Memorial to Labor Day. Zoom in to see the menu.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although Oval Beach does have a concession stand in summer, it sells a limited number of lunch and snack items. The stand closes after Labor Day. Expect to be able to refill your water bottles next to the Oval Beach restrooms. On a fall visit, we brought water, towels to sit on, and snacks.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"3_Expect_low_to_no_cell_signal_especially_at_Oval_Beach\"><strong>3. Expect low to no cell signal, especially at Oval Beach.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are Verizon carriers and get zero cell signal at Oval Beach. Keep the possibility of having no or spotty cell service in mind if you need to be in touch. Or if you anticipate that you may not want to walk the return route uphill. If this is likely, you will want to schedule a pickup before your hike with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.saugatuckinterurban.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Interurban<\/a>, a friend or family member, or a local taxi.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"4_On_hot_summer_days_be_prepared_to_protect_your_feet\"><strong>4. On hot summer days, be prepared to protect your feet.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sandy, unshaded bottom portion of this trail closest to Oval Beach on hot summer days will scorch your feet. You will want to avoid planning to walk barefoot in this section. We walked the trail in flip-flops and Crocs, and parts still felt uncomfortable. If you have little kids, the heat of the sand might be too much, and you might have to carry them. <\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"5_Choose_the_right_time_to_climb\"><strong>5. Choose the right time to climb.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the summer, the best times to climb Mt. Baldhead are in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler and the light is softer. Doing this not only makes the climb more comfortable but also enhances the views from the summit. Plus, you are more likely to be able to find parking at the Mt. Baldhead Park lot on busy summer days and weekends.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"Related_reading\"><strong>Related reading.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you plan to visit the Saugatuck area or like to take road trips around the US Midwest, check out my related articles below to help you get the information you need to plan your best trips.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/best-saugatuck-restaurants-michigan\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/gatherandgotravel-screenshot-article-meals-to-love-in-saugatuck-michigan-10-best-restaurants-1024x353.webp\" alt=\"Screenshot of Gather and Go Travel article &quot;Meals to Love in Saugatuck, MI: 10 Best Restaurants&quot;\" class=\"wp-image-54996 lazyload\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"276\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/gatherandgotravel-screenshot-article-meals-to-love-in-saugatuck-michigan-10-best-restaurants.webp?resize=800%2C276&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Screenshot of Gather and Go Travel article &quot;Meals to Love in Saugatuck, MI: 10 Best Restaurants&quot;\" class=\"wp-image-54996 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/gatherandgotravel-screenshot-article-meals-to-love-in-saugatuck-michigan-10-best-restaurants.webp?resize=1024%2C353&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/gatherandgotravel-screenshot-article-meals-to-love-in-saugatuck-michigan-10-best-restaurants.webp?resize=300%2C103&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/gatherandgotravel-screenshot-article-meals-to-love-in-saugatuck-michigan-10-best-restaurants.webp?resize=768%2C264&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/gatherandgotravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/gatherandgotravel-screenshot-article-meals-to-love-in-saugatuck-michigan-10-best-restaurants.webp?w=1400&amp;ssl=1 1400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Love to read? Check out my curated list of<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/michigan-the-best-books-to-read-before-a-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><em> books about or set in Michigan<\/em><\/a><em> that I recommend.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"Feedback_questions\"><br \/><strong>Feedback &amp; questions.<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n<p style=\"font-size:22px\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Did this article help? Do you have questions about an upcoming visit? Or updates to the information shared? Please post in the comments below, and I will respond.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"Pin_this_article\"><br \/><strong>Pin this article.<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Just west of the charming Michigan town of Saugatuck and on the opposite side of the Kalamazoo River, you can climb Mount Baldhead. This 1-mile out-and-back trail, between the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, includes 303 stairs to the top of Mount Baldhead, a towering dune rising about 800 feet above sea level. At its [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":358892,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[96741,12233,12320,154637,154638,123125,99682,145883,154639,100407,154640],"tags":[425,2933,154641,154642,65111,18825,154643,154644],"dealstore":[],"offerexpiration":[],"class_list":["post-358891","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-destinations","category-hiking","category-michigan","category-midwest-travel","category-saugatuck","category-template-posts","category-things-to-do","category-travel-planning","category-travel-planning-trips","category-united-states","category-us-travel","tag-hiking","tag-michigan","tag-midwest-travel","tag-saugatuck","tag-things-to-do","tag-travel-planning","tag-travel-planning-trips","tag-us-travel"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>What You Need to Know - Som2ny Network<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What You Need to Know - Som2ny Network\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Just west of the charming Michigan town of Saugatuck and on the opposite side of the Kalamazoo River, you can climb Mount Baldhead. This 1-mile out-and-back trail, between the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, includes 303 stairs to the top of Mount Baldhead, a towering dune rising about 800 feet above sea level. At its [&hellip;]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Som2ny Network\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-07-30T19:28:22+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mount-baldhead-stairs-horizontal-header-image-facebook.webp.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"630\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"admin\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"admin\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"9 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"admin\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#\/schema\/person\/b85e3c3dc0e1daea076524dc8810c371\"},\"headline\":\"What You Need to Know\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-30T19:28:22+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891\"},\"wordCount\":1842,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mount-baldhead-stairs-horizontal-header-image-facebook.webp.webp\",\"keywords\":[\"Hiking\",\"Michigan\",\"Midwest Travel\",\"Saugatuck\",\"things to do\",\"travel planning\",\"Travel Planning Trips\",\"US Travel\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Destinations\",\"Hiking\",\"Michigan\",\"Midwest Travel\",\"Saugatuck\",\"Template Posts\",\"Things to do\",\"travel planning\",\"Travel Planning Trips\",\"United States\",\"US Travel\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891\",\"name\":\"What You Need to Know - Som2ny Network\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mount-baldhead-stairs-horizontal-header-image-facebook.webp.webp\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-30T19:28:22+00:00\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mount-baldhead-stairs-horizontal-header-image-facebook.webp.webp\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mount-baldhead-stairs-horizontal-header-image-facebook.webp.webp\",\"width\":1200,\"height\":630},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?bp_activities=1\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"What You Need to Know\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/\",\"name\":\"Som2ny Network\",\"description\":\"Daily Deals\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Som2ny Network\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/4a0953c4-logo-300x86-1.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/4a0953c4-logo-300x86-1.png\",\"width\":300,\"height\":86,\"caption\":\"Som2ny Network\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#\/schema\/person\/b85e3c3dc0e1daea076524dc8810c371\",\"name\":\"admin\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/729ae85bf62b9917e93538db2f2688ca?s=96&r=g&default=https%3A%2F%2Ffivemor.com%2Fwp-content%2Fplugins%2Fbuddypress-first-letter-avatar%2Fimages%2Fdefault%2F96%2Flatin_a.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/729ae85bf62b9917e93538db2f2688ca?s=96&r=g&default=https%3A%2F%2Ffivemor.com%2Fwp-content%2Fplugins%2Fbuddypress-first-letter-avatar%2Fimages%2Fdefault%2F96%2Flatin_a.png\",\"caption\":\"admin\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\"],\"url\":\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?author=1\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"What You Need to Know - Som2ny Network","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"What You Need to Know - Som2ny Network","og_description":"Just west of the charming Michigan town of Saugatuck and on the opposite side of the Kalamazoo River, you can climb Mount Baldhead. This 1-mile out-and-back trail, between the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, includes 303 stairs to the top of Mount Baldhead, a towering dune rising about 800 feet above sea level. At its [&hellip;]","og_url":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891","og_site_name":"Som2ny Network","article_published_time":"2026-07-30T19:28:22+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1200,"height":630,"url":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mount-baldhead-stairs-horizontal-header-image-facebook.webp.webp","type":"image\/webp"}],"author":"admin","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"admin","Est. reading time":"9 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891"},"author":{"name":"admin","@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#\/schema\/person\/b85e3c3dc0e1daea076524dc8810c371"},"headline":"What You Need to Know","datePublished":"2026-07-30T19:28:22+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891"},"wordCount":1842,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mount-baldhead-stairs-horizontal-header-image-facebook.webp.webp","keywords":["Hiking","Michigan","Midwest Travel","Saugatuck","things to do","travel planning","Travel Planning Trips","US Travel"],"articleSection":["Destinations","Hiking","Michigan","Midwest Travel","Saugatuck","Template Posts","Things to do","travel planning","Travel Planning Trips","United States","US Travel"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891","url":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891","name":"What You Need to Know - Som2ny Network","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mount-baldhead-stairs-horizontal-header-image-facebook.webp.webp","datePublished":"2026-07-30T19:28:22+00:00","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mount-baldhead-stairs-horizontal-header-image-facebook.webp.webp","contentUrl":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mount-baldhead-stairs-horizontal-header-image-facebook.webp.webp","width":1200,"height":630},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=358891#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?bp_activities=1"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"What You Need to Know"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#website","url":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/","name":"Som2ny Network","description":"Daily Deals","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#organization","name":"Som2ny Network","url":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/4a0953c4-logo-300x86-1.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/4a0953c4-logo-300x86-1.png","width":300,"height":86,"caption":"Som2ny Network"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#\/schema\/person\/b85e3c3dc0e1daea076524dc8810c371","name":"admin","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/729ae85bf62b9917e93538db2f2688ca?s=96&r=g&default=https%3A%2F%2Ffivemor.com%2Fwp-content%2Fplugins%2Fbuddypress-first-letter-avatar%2Fimages%2Fdefault%2F96%2Flatin_a.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/729ae85bf62b9917e93538db2f2688ca?s=96&r=g&default=https%3A%2F%2Ffivemor.com%2Fwp-content%2Fplugins%2Fbuddypress-first-letter-avatar%2Fimages%2Fdefault%2F96%2Flatin_a.png","caption":"admin"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/fivemor.com"],"url":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?author=1"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/358891","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=358891"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/358891\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/358892"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=358891"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=358891"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=358891"},{"taxonomy":"dealstore","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fdealstore&post=358891"},{"taxonomy":"offerexpiration","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fofferexpiration&post=358891"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}