John and Dede Howard Recreation Trail
A scenic, accessible trail along Lake Michigan, perfect for leisurely walks with beach access and evening ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beautiful subtle colors
John and Dede Howard Recreation Trail
Best Time
Beautiful subtle colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic, accessible trail along Lake Michigan, perfect for leisurely walks with beach access and evening ambiance.
"Wonderful trail, right adjacent to Lion's Beach, offering a calming experience with the sound of waves."
🚶♀️ Park Smart
If beach parking is full, try finding a spot on the bluff and connect via Park Street. 🚗
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leash up your furry friends! This trail is a great spot for a walk with your dog. 🐕
Quick Facts
Rating
4.6 · 38 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lion's Beach Connection
Adjacent to Lion's Beach
Enjoy the calming sounds of Lake Michigan waves crashing while walking this scenic trail.
Trellis Bridge
On the trail
A unique wooden plank section that adds charm and character to your walk.
Evening Ambiance
The entire trail
Experience a mysteriously welcoming and well-lit path after sunset, with beautiful subtle colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Access & Parking
Best for All Abilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Park Smart
If beach parking is full, try finding a spot on the bluff and connect via Park Street. 🚗
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leash up your furry friends! This trail is a great spot for a walk with your dog. 🐕
♿ Accessible Path
Enjoy a smooth, accessible walk with paved sections and wooden planks. ♿
🌙 Nighttime Charm
The well-lit path offers a unique and welcoming atmosphere after dark. 🔦
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Park Smart
If beach parking is full, try finding a spot on the bluff and connect via Park Street. 🚗
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leash up your furry friends! This trail is a great spot for a walk with your dog. 🐕
♿ Accessible Path
Enjoy a smooth, accessible walk with paved sections and wooden planks. ♿
🌙 Nighttime Charm
The well-lit path offers a unique and welcoming atmosphere after dark. 🔦
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the John and Dede Howard Recreation Trail for its convenience, cleanliness, and accessibility, especially its connection to Lion's Beach and the calming sounds of Lake Michigan. Some express mixed feelings about the modern construction compared to older features, but generally find it a pleasant and well-maintained place for a walk.
"This place is so neat It's right over by the beach so you get to see the lake very convenient very clean very well lit."
Shari Wymer
"Very nice place"
Lisa
"Wonderful trail.... right adjacent to Lion's Beach."
Rick Ehrhardt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the trail from Lion's Beach or Park Street. Parking is available at Lion's Beach, though fees may apply. Some find free parking on the bluff and connect via Park Street.
Yes, parking is available at Lion's Beach, but it may have a fee. Alternatively, you can look for parking on the bluff near Park Street.
Yes, if you can find a parking spot on the bluff, you can connect to the trail off of Park Street.
You can start at the top of the bluff and walk down, or begin at Lion's Beach and follow the trailhead.
Information on public transport access is limited, but the trail is located in St. Joseph, MI, so checking local bus routes would be advisable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the trail itself is free to walk. Parking fees may apply if you park at Lion's Beach.
The trail is well-lit, suggesting it's accessible after dark. Specific official hours are not widely published, but it's often enjoyed for evening strolls.
No advance booking is required as the trail is free to access.
While generally accessible, it's always a good idea to check local advisories, especially during off-season or for specific events.
The trail is generally open year-round, though winter conditions might affect accessibility and enjoyment.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trail features a mix of pavement and wooden planks, including a trellis bridge, making it accessible for various users.
Yes, the trail is designed to be handicap accessible, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
Absolutely! The John and Dede Howard Recreation Trail is dog-friendly, so bring your leashed canine companions.
One visitor reported walking about 2.4 miles in total on the trail, suggesting it offers a decent length for a walk or hike.
You'll experience views near Lake Michigan, with sections that clear the beaches and offer a calming atmosphere with the sound of waves.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers beautiful subtle colors, creating a mysteriously welcoming and picturesque scene.
The trellis bridge and the views near Lake Michigan, especially during sunset, are popular spots for photos.
Yes, the trail is well-lit, which can be advantageous for capturing evening shots and the unique ambiance.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscape shots and a tripod for low-light evening photography.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be mindful of other visitors and respect the natural environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit