Mac Wood's Dune Rides — Attraction in Golden Township

My family and I came here on a recommendation of a family friend, and we were not disappointed at all. Being relatively close to Michigan - I am from Wisconsin - I did not even know that such a cool experience was so close by! Every component - the service, the excursion itself, and the price - are excellent.

First, the service. Everyone at Mac Wood's was extremely friendly, and they have an extremely organized process to get you on your tour buggy. The average wait time on a busy day may push an hour, but there is ample seating for waiting. The staff are also humorous, and making everything a smooth, fun, and unique Michigan experience. My Rating for this Category: 5/5

Next, the excursion itself. From the start to the end, the staff make the whole trip fun. They will start by honking the horn and making you shout for fun, and then off you go. You will get the opportunity to go fast through the dunes while also having the chance to take photos and walk along the Lake Michigan beach. The total duration of the excursion was about forty minutes. My Rating for this Category: 5/5

Finally, the price. For people ages 12+, the cost is $25/person as of July 2023. Anyone under that age it is a cheaper rate, but I cannot remember what the price is. For the service and duration you get, on top of it being a unique experience, it is absolutely worth the price. My Rating for this Category: 5/5

I am extremely shocked I did not know about this place earlier as I have traveled through the area before. It is extremely fun, and everyone should get the chance to do it. Also, our driver Scott was fantastic - he provided a perfect blend of being friendly and funny. With him giving great service and a wonderful excursion all at a good price, I would absolutely recommend Mac Woods Dune Rides to anyone traveling...

Mac Wood’s Dune Rides (Visited 8/10/2025)

Our visit to Mac Wood’s Dune Rides was absolutely unforgettable! We had the pleasure of riding with Walton, who has an incredible 32 years of experience driving the dunes — and it showed from start to finish. His skill behind the wheel was matched only by his extensive knowledge of the dunes and surrounding area. He shared fascinating facts, pointed out hidden features, and sprinkled in plenty of well-timed jokes that kept everyone laughing and in great spirits throughout the 40-minute adventure.

The ride itself was a perfect balance of breathtaking scenery and pure fun. There were moments that felt just like a rollercoaster — thrilling drops, sharp turns, and bursts of speed — but always safe in Walton’s capable hands. The trip is also full of photo opportunities: sweeping dune landscapes, Lake Michigan views, and unique natural features you won’t see anywhere else. One of the highlights was learning about fulgurite, a rare and beautiful glassy formation created when lightning strikes the sand — something truly special to these dunes.

Before or after your ride, be sure to check out the gift shop. It’s packed with great finds including toys for the kids, cozy clothing, and fun accessories to remember your trip by.

If you’re in Michigan, this is a must-do experience. As the saying goes:

"The dunes are Michigan’s shifting mountains — climb them with your heart, and they’ll stay with you forever."

We’ll definitely be back for another ride. Five shining...

Love Woods. I've been going ever year since I was a kid. My dad would set up camp on lake side of Silver Lake campgrounds for us on a Friday after work. Wed stay the week and then we'd drive to Ludington on Sunday afternoon and he'd hitch hike back home to Midland's Mt Haley township to go to work M-F and we'd pick him up in Ludington again on Friday. He'd stay the weekend and do it all over again. We would do anything and everything when he was there and not We would pontoon over lake or drive around and climb the dunes and walk the 3 miles across to Lake Michigan. Would LOVE LOVE LOVE to be able to do that still. On the trek across the dunes, we'd come upon an old village that some one had set up there(at least that's what dad said) it had a small store and a Xtra small jail and gee I can't remember what else. T am pretty sure ther was 4 buildings there. I also remember the houses on the west side of Silver Lake starting to get buried by the dunes. (Are the under them now or were they transported elsewhere.??) LOVED it when Mack's could do the razorback on the Silver Lake side. We'd head straight down like we were go na hit the lake and then last minute turn the buggy so we could climb back up it. They can't do that now, dunes is way to steep. They didn't have the public buggy park back then. It has become SOOOOO COMMERCIALIZED. The state park is where I met my first child's dad. Super great memories. OOOHH SHOOT NOW I WANNA GO BACK OVER THERE.ROAD TRIP...