Grand Trunk Boat Launch

The gravel lot is rutted badly — deep potholes that'll jar your trailer and test your patience. The city doesn't grade it often enough, so by midsummer it feels like an obstacle course. Take it slow or you'll bottom out a lower truck.

The launch runs shallow, especially later in summer or in low-water years. If you're pushing anything close to that 30-foot limit, you might scrape. Lighter aluminum boats and smaller fiberglass are fine, but trim up quick once you're off the trailer.

There are no security cameras here. Gear left visible in vehicles — nets, coolers, rods — has a way of disappearing while you're out on the water. Lock everything in your cab or trunk, and don't leave anything tempting in the bed of your truck.

This is a go-to spot for getting onto Muskegon Lake in winter. The lot stays accessible even in cold months, and you can walk out to good perch and pike territory without a long haul. One of the easier winter entry points on this side of the lake.

Four lanes and 57 trailer spots sounds great on paper, but the ramp surface needs maintenance and there's no salt barrel to deal with slippery algae buildup. If you want a cleaner experience on a weekend, Grand Haven's launch is worth the 20-minute drive south.