Looking for a unique adventure? Mount Baldhead in Saugatuck, Michigan has exactly what you’re looking for. Climb the Stair-Climb From Hell for spectacular views of Saugatuck, Douglas, and a glimpse of Lake Michigan.
The Climb to the Mount Baldhead Summit
Although it may look and sound intimidating, the 303 stair climb isn’t nearly as bad as one would think. With benches and resting platforms along the way, visitors of all levels can make their way to the summit at their own pace.
We took our time and enjoyed the views as we climbed. Higher up, the platforms offered perfect spots to stop and take in the beautiful views of Saugatuck and the Kalamazoo River.
We arrived earlier in the day, trying to beat the heat. We also beat the crowds. There were only a couple of people climbing the stairs when we arrived but more showed up when we started our descent. Rated as one of the best hikes in Saugatuck, this spot gets really popular throughout the day.
Additional Trails
Along with the Stair-Climb from Hell, visitors can enjoy two additional trails. The North-Woods trail begins at the top of the stair climb. It is a one-mile loop that is sandy and steep, offering a moderate challenge. Hikers descend from the summit of Mount Baldhead to Oval Beach at Lake Michigan.
If you want to avoid climbing back up the sandy trail, you can follow the road from Oval Beach for 0.9 miles back to the Mount Baldhead parking area.
Gussing At Path is the third trail. It can be picked up either on top of Mount Baldhead or from Perryman Street by Oval Beach. This option allows you to bypass the 303 stairs, but you are climbing or descending the same height and the trail is sandy and steep.
Mount Baldhead Radar Station
Upon arriving in Saugatuck, you may notice the large moon-shaped object, towering above the trees. This is the Mount Baldhead Radar Station.
A collaborative project by the US Air Force, IBM, and MIT, the station was constructed in 1956. The intention was that it would be a computerized air-defense network that could watch over the northern border. Its job was to collect data from hundreds of radar stations across the country and keep an eye out for Soviet invaders.
Deactivated in 1968, the Air Force sold the building, tower, and radar equipment to the city of Saugatuck. Since then, it has been preserved as a part of history and is currently trying to be added to the National Register of Historic Places.
More Information
For more information on Mount Baldhead Park, visit Saugatuck City.