56 Lake Superior Lighthouses
Experience living history, rich culture and breathtaking views at Lake Superior Lighthouses all along the Lake Superior Circle Tour. There over 56 Lake Superior Lighthouses on the Lake Superior Circle Tour. Although some are not easily accessible, they all have a unique story to tell. Whether you are viewing them from water or land, Lake Superior’s lighthouses are worth checking out. Here’s the scoop on what each site has to offer. From the Great Lake Shipwreck Museum to Split Rock Lighthouse, and to the Porphyry Island Lighthouse – we’ve got everything lighthouse around the Lake!
Point Iroquois Lighthouse
Brimley, Michigan
Point Iroquois Lighthouse, operated by the Hiawatha National Forest Service, is located near Brimley, in Michigan’s Chippewa County. Built in 1870, this historic landmark stands 65 feet tall and overlooks Whitefish Bay and Lake Superior at the mouth of the St. Mary River. During operating hours, visitors are welcome inside the lighthouse to climb to the top of the tower, check out the museum, and browse the gift shop. Download the Hiawatha National Forest mobile app to take a self guided tour! Entry is free of charge however donations are always appreciated. After hours, visit the lighthouse grounds, and stroll the accessible boardwalk to the Lake Superior shoreline.
Whitefish Point Light Station
Paradise, Michigan
Whitefish Point Light Station was built in 1861 and is the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior. It is one of the most popular Lake Superior Lighthouses. Standing 76 feet tall, it remains an important beacon for the notorious shoreline known as “Lake Superior’s Shipwreck Coast” that has claimed some 200 vessels. The legendary Edmund Fitzgerald went down just 15 miles from Whitefish Point! Guided tours are available for the lighthouse, as well as the lightkeeper’s quarters and the Surfboat House. During the summer and autumn seasons, the lighthouse offers a Crews Quarters Overnight Program, by reservation only. This is also the site of the Great Lake Shipwreck Museum, where you can learn about the Lake’s perilous waters and the ships it has claimed.
Crisp Point Lighthouse
Newberry, Michigan
Standing 59 feet tall, the remote Crisp Point Lighthouse was constructed in 1903-04. Named after the famed Life Saving Station Keeper Christopher Crisp. Christopher Crisp was the Life Saving Station Keeper until 1890. The lighthouse is located 37 miles north of Newberry in Michigan’s Luce County. During its regular operational hours, access to the lighthouse, visitor center and restrooms are free to the public. The Crisp Point Light Historical Society has done an excellent job of restoring and preserving the lighthouse. Any time of year, you can stroll the boardwalk to Crisp Point Beach.
Grand Marais Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse
Grand Marais, Michigan
There are two lighthouses at this site, located at Grand Marais in Michigan’s Alger County. The Inner Lighthouse is 55 feet high, while the Outer Lighthouse is 34 feet. They were erected in 1895, and both are still operational. While you are here, check out the Light Keeper’s House Museum, which is also on site.
Au Sable Light Station
Grand Marais, Michigan
Located within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Au Sable Light Station is found approximately 12 miles west of Grand Marais, Michigan. You can get to this site taking a 1.5 mile walk or bike via the Au Sable Light Station Trail. Park at the Hurricane River Campground and access the trail from there. Guided tours of the lighthouse are available at a cost of $3, cash only. Au Sable was built in 1874 and stands at a height of 88 feet. Once at the top of the spiral staircase, you are rewarded with a panoramic view of Lake Superior and the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. It is quite clearly one of the most popular Lake Superior Lighthouses!
Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse
Grand Marais, Michigan
Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse was built in 1868 on the southeast shore of Grand Island. Standing 45.9 feet high, its unique wooden structure makes it a favorite amongst photographers. Although one of the most popular Lake Superior Lighthouses it is privately owned, the grounds are not open to the public. However, Pictured Rocks cruises and Shipwreck Tours hired out of Munising will take a pass by the site.
Grand Island North Lighthouse
Munising, Michigan
The Grand Island North Lighthouse stands atop a majestic 175 feet tall cliff on Grand Island, part of the Hiawatha National Forest. Built in 1867, it was deactivated in 1961 and has been restored as a summer home. The island is accessible by ferry, private boat, or cruises hired out of Munising. Although not accessible to the public, it can be viewed from the water.
Munising Front Range Lighthouse
Munising, Michigan
Munising Front Range Lighthouse was established in 1908 to help vessels navigate the narrow channel east of Grand Island into Munising Bay. The two red beacons direct ships toward the East Channel and line up one above the other, creating focal planes of 79 and 107 feet above the Lake. The grounds are open, but the tower is closed o the public.
Grand Island Harbor Front Range Light
Munising, Michigan
Grand Island Harbor Front Range Light, also known as the Bay Furnace Range Light, this structure was erected along the water’s edge in 1867. It stands 20 feet tall and is located down a foot path just prior to entering Christmas, 4.5 miles west of Munising. The Rear Range is found down the adjacent path across the M-28.
Grand Island Harbor Rear Range Lighthouse
Munising, Michigan
Built in 1908 the Grand Island Harbour Rear Range Lighthouse is located in Munising in Michigan’s Alger County. Standing 33 feet tall, its active red light works in conjunction with the Munising Front Range Lighthouse. The tower is closed, although the site is open to the public.
Marquette Harbor Lighthouse
Marquette, Michigan
Established in 1853, this “Heart Throb Red” Marquette Harbor Lighthouse stands 40 feet tall over the Marquette Harbor. It is located at the southern end of a paved, railed breakwater wall that is accessible on foot. Guided tours are provided by the Marquette Maritime Museum for a fee. The tours begin at the Museum, continuing to the lighthouse, up the 50 steps that lead to its entrance.
Presque Isle Harbor Breakwater Lighthouse
Presque Isle Harbor, Marquette, Michigan
Built in 1941 the Presque Isle Harbor Breakwater Lighthouse is located on the 1,216 feet long breakwater at the east side of Presque Isle Harbor across from the Clark Lambros Beach Park in Marquette, Michigan. The breakwater is accessible to visitors, except during storms, as violent waves pose a danger to pedestrians. It is important for visitors to wear sturdy shoes as the rocky portion of the breakwater is difficult to traverse.
Stannard Rock Lighthouse
Marquette, Michigan
Known as “the loneliest lighthouse in the world”, Stannard Rock Lighthouse is located 45 miles from the Marquette Harbor on a hazardous reef, which barely rests below the water’s surface and stretches ¼ of a mile long. When the reef was discovered by Captain Charles Stannard in 1835, it was marked with a day beacon. In 1883, the 78 feet tall Stannard Rock Lighthouse was erected. This engineering marvel is closed to the public, but it can be viewed from the water. You don’t have a boat? No problem. Charters can be booked out of Marquette.
Big Bay Point Lighthouse
Big Bay, Michigan
Built in 1896, Big Bay Point Lighthouse is located 4 miles from Big Bay and 25 miles north of Marquette. The 64 feet tall tower is accessible to visitors, who can climb the stairs to see a breathtaking view, 120 feet above the Lake. This lighthouse is one of a handful of operating lighthouses that also offers accommodations. Its bed and breakfast houses seven guest rooms within its two-story brick structure. This is a unique Circle Tour experience.
Huron Island Lighthouse
Skanee, Michigan
Huron Island Lighthouse is located on Lighthouse Island, 3 miles from Skanee, and 18 miles east of the Keweena Peninsula. Established in 1868, the lighthouse stands 39 feet tall. The island and lighthouse are open to the public and can only be reached by boat. The dwelling and tower are closed to visitors.
Manitou Island Light Station
Manitou Island Light Station Preserve, Manitou Island, Michigan
Built in 1862, the Manitou Island Light Station lighthouse is located 3 miles off the tip of Keweenaw Peninsula, near Copper Harbor. It includes a skeletal tower and light keeper dwelling. Now automated, the lighthouse remains active to aid vessel navigation. It is closed to the public, but the grounds are open to visitors. Best viewed by boat, it is strongly recommended that only highly experienced boaters a disembark on the island. The island’s dock is about 2/3 of a mile walk through rough terrain to the lighthouse.
Copper Harbor Lighthouse
Copper Harbor, Michigan
Located within the Fort Wilkins Historic State Park, Copper Harbor Lighthouse stands 44 feet tall and participated in the transport of copper from the U.P. Built in 1866, the grounds are open to the public, and tours of the dwelling are available. However, the light tower is not accessible to visitors, as is the road that leads to the lighthouse. Visitors can hire a boat tour from the Copper Harbour Marina.
Mendota (Bete Grise) Lighthouse
Mendota Canal, Bete Grise, Michigan
Originally, a lighthouse was constructed here in 1869 but it was quickly deemed unnecessary due to lack of vessel traffic entering the canal to Lac La Belle. Just 4 months after it was built, it was moved to Marquette. Due to the increase in water traffic, a new structure was built 26 years later. This is the Mendota Lighthouse that stands today. The grounds and tower are closed to the public however it can be viewed from across the Mendota Canal, which can be accessed via the Bete De Gris Road.
Eagle Harbor Lighthouse
Eagle Harbor, Michigan
Originally built in 1851, the Eagle Harbor Lighthouse was replaced in 1871. Standing 44 feet tall, the tower and lightkeepers dwellings are furnished with authentic period pieces, with the dwelling having been converted into a Museum Complex. The building that was once the assistant keeper’s residence is now a Commercial Fishing Museum! This is a great place to spend an afternoon taking in the spectacular views of the Lake, and exploring a lighthouse steeped in history.
Sand Hills Lighthouse
Ahmeek, Michigan
One of the “younger” lighthouses on the lake, Sand Hills Lighthouse is a 70 foot tall structure that was built in 1917 and was listed in the national Register of Historic Places in 1994. Converted to an Inn the following year, the lighthouse is currently closed for repairs, and the grounds gated off. Upon re-opening, guests are sure to enjoy a unique overnight experience.
Keweenaw Waterway Upper Entrance Lighthouse
McLain State Park, Hancock, Michigan
The Keweenaw Waterway Upper Entrance Lighthouse is located within McLain State Park, at the end of the breakwater where Portage Lake and Lake Superior meet. The tower is closed to the public, but it can be viewed from the beach. Visitors can also walk along the breakwater to get a closer look. The large rocks that make up the breakwater can be treacherous, so sturdy footwear and use of caution is imperative.
Fourteen Mile Point Lighthouse
Ontonagon, Michigan
Located 19 miles northeast of Ontonagon, Fourteen Mile Point Lighthouse is best viewed form the water. On foot, it is only accessible via a strenuous, 12 mile round trip hike. Constructed in 1894 to help vessels traverse from Ontonagon to Houghton, it is no longer functional and has deteriorated greatly. Abandoned and damaged by fire, the ruins of this remote lighthouse are haunting to behold. The lighthouse is now privately owned, and the grounds are open.
Ontonagon Lighthouse
Ontonagon, Michigan
Built in 1853, the Ontonagon Lighthouse rests on the western shore of the Ontonagon River. Operational until 1963, it is now owned and operated by the Ontonagon County Historical Society. The cream-colored square brick tower stands 34 feet tall, with a light keeper residence attached. The tower is open to the public, and your trip to the top is rewarded with breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the Porcupine Mountains. A guided tour of the Ontonagon Lighthouse can be booked at the Ontonagon County Historical Museum, across the river.
Rock Harbor Lighthouse
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Rock Harbor Lighthouse is located on Isle Royale National Park in Michigan’s Keweenaw County. The lighthouse was built in 1855 and was the first of four lighthouses built at Isle Royale. It is situated at the southwest entrance to Rock Harbor. Standing 50 feet (15 m) tall, this round white brick tower with black lantern is the most visited lighthouse on Isle Royale. The attached light keeper’s house currently serves as a museum. The light hasn’t been in operation since 1879 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
Visitors to Isle Royale National Park must arrive by boat or seaplane. There are transportation services that depart from Houghton, MI, Copper Harbor, MI, and Grand Portage, MN.
Passage Island Lighthouse
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Passage Island Lighthouse is located on the southern tip of Passage Island on the northeast side of Isle Royale National Park. The lighthouse, built in 1882, provides safe passage for ships through a narrow 3 mile (4.8km) lane between the island and Isle Royale to this day with an automated light. It stands 44 feet tall and built in a Norman Gothic style. The Park offers programs that include transportation from Isle Royale’s Rock Harbor to Passage Island. There is a mile long hiking trail that leads to the lighthouse once visitors get to the island.
Rock of Ages Lighthouse
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Rock of Ages Lighthouse is located just outside Washington Harbor 5 miles (8 km) off the northwest tip of Isle Royale National Park. Built in 1908, this lighthouse still serves as a navigational aid for boats. It is one of the tallest and lighthouses on Lake Superior and is the tallest in the Park standing at an impressive 130 feet (40 m) on a remote reef. Due to its sized and isolated location, its construction was a major feat of engineering. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
Isle Royale Lighthouse
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Isle Royale Lighthouse is also located in Isle Royale National Park situated on Menagerie Island. This 61 foot (18.6 m) tall octagonal light tower was built in 1875 to aid ships coming into Isle Royale’s rocky harbor. The light keepers home is attached to the light tower by an 8 foot (2.5 m) long covered passageway. The second lightkeeper on the island was John Henry Malone, who lived there with his wife and 11 children for 31 years. The grounds on Menagerie Island are open but the tower is closed to visitors.
La Pointe Lighthouse
Long Island – Apostle Island, Washburn, Wisconsin
La Pointe Lighthouse is 65.5 feet tall, was built in 1896, and is located on the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, on the end of Long Island. The tower is closed. The grounds are open to the public, but this site is best viewed via boat. Boat tours are available for hire, and the annual Apostle Island Lighthouse Celebration presents many opportunities to view this, and all of the Apostle Island lighthouses, via boat cruises that depart from Bayfield.
Michigan Island Lighthouse
Michigan Island – Apostle Island, La Pointe, Wisconsin
There are two lighthouses, directly beside each other on Michigan Island, which is one of the Apostle Islands. The first, 65 feet high with an attached dwelling, was constructed accidentally in 1856 when contractors were sent here instead of Long Island! The second lighthouse was erected in 1929 and stands a whopping 112 feet high, becoming the tallest in the state of Wisconsin! Only the most experienced boaters should attempt landing at this island to see the Michigan Island Lighthouses, as navigating the tumultuous waters can be difficult. Boat tours that dock on the island and allow you to explore the grounds can be hired from Bayfield. During the summer season, there are volunteer rangers on most of the Apostle Islands to welcome visitors and offer tours.
Outer Island Lighthouse
Outer Island – Apostle Island, La Pointe, Wisconsin
Outer Island Lighthouse, standing 90 feet high, includes an attached two-story light keeper dwelling and is located on the further most island of the Apostles. Built in 1874, it is found on the northern tip of Outer Island and was used to guide ships to and from the port towns of Duluth and Superior. Due to the location and conditions, only experienced boaters should attempt to dock at this lighthouse. Boat tours departing from Bayfield are available and recommended, so that visitors can explore the lighthouse grounds safely. During high season, volunteer rangers greet island visitors and offer guided tours.
Devil’s Island Lighthouse
Devil’s Island – Apostle Island, La Pointe, Wisconsin
Built in 1901, Devil’s Island Lighthouse includes a tower that is 82 feet tall, and two light keepers’ residences. There are multiple docking sites on the island, making it one of the more popular Apostle Islands for boaters. Don’t have a boat? No problem. Boat tours that dock on the island can be hired out of Bayfield.
Raspberry Island Lighthouse
Raspberry Island – Apostle Island, Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
Raspberry Island Lighthouse, built in 1862, stands 43 feet high and includes a light keeper dwelling. It also marks the western channel of the Apostle Islands. Raspberry Island is the most accessible lighthouse site within the Apostles. Tours are offered daily during the summer, between 9 am and 4pm. Boat tours to the island are available as well.
Sand Island Lighthouse
Sand Bay, Wisconsin
Sand Island is located within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and can be accessed by an 11 mile round trip trail, including an 8 mile (in and out) paddle and a 2 mile (in and out) hike. Professional guides are recommended for novice kayakers. Built in 1881, the Sand Island Lighthouse stands 44 feet tall. Carved wood decorates the steeply sloped gable end of the light keeper quarters. Tours are available during summer months, usually between noon and 4pm. Kayakers are encouraged to explore the east coast of the island, which features incredible sea caves!
Superior Entry Lighthouse – Wisconsin Point Lighthouse
Superior, Wisconsin
Superior Entry Lighthouse – Wisconsin Point Lighthouse was established in 1913, at the end of a 10 mile long freshwater sandbar. One half of the sandbar is Wisconsin Point, while the other half, Minnesota Point, is also known as Park Point in Duluth, Minnesota. A break wall extends from the point where the 55.7 feet high lighthouse rests, marking access to the Superior Entry Channel. The lighthouse is closed to the public however the grounds are open to explore via the breakwater. Sturdy footwear is recommended, as the first portion of the walk is rocky and requires some effort to traverse. The second portion is an easier, concrete pathway. This is an excellent vantage point from which to view ships coming into harbor.
Duluth Harbor South Breakwater Inner Lighthouse
Duluth, Minnesota
Built in 1889, this cast iron and steel skeletal tower stands 68.8 feet tall. Duluth Harbor South Breakwater Inner Lighthouse is located at the foot of the Aerial Lift Bridge, one can also see two other Lake Superior Lighthouses from this location: the Duluth Harbor South Breakwater Outer Lighthouse, and the Duluth North Pier Lighthouse. This is also a great location to watch vessels passing through the canal and under the Aerial Lift Bridge. Ample parking is available before you cross the bridge. Duluth is home to many Lake Superior Lighthouses!
Duluth Harbor South Breakwater Outer Lighthouse
Duluth, Minnesota
Constructed in 1901 the 44 feet tall Duluth Harbour South Breakwater Outer Lighthouse was established to guide ships entering the harbor at night or in heavy fog. It stands at the end of a 1,720 footlong concrete breakwater that begins at the foot of the Aerial Lift Bridge, as you cross over to Minnesota Point, or Park Point. It is one of three lighthouses visible from this area.
Duluth Harbor North Pier Lighthouse
Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth Harbor North Pier Lighthouse was established in 1910 and stands 36 feet tall. Constructed with steel and cast iron, it is located at the end of the 1,720 footlong concrete breakwater of Duluth Ship Canal. Also visible from this location are the Duluth Harbor South Breakwater Outer Lighthouse and the Duluth Harbor South Breakwater Inner Lighthouse.
Two Harbors Breakwater Lighthouse
Two Harbors, Minnesota
Two Harbors Breakwater Lighthouse was established in 1895 and is located at the end of the breakwater entrance to Lake Superior’s Agate Bay. The breakwater includes a wide concrete walkway to provide easy access to visitors. Come to this site to watch massive ships loading taconite at the Ore Docks. Also located at the site is the Two Harbors Lighthouse Museum and B & B.
Two Harbors Lighthouse
Two Harbors, Minnesota
Two Harbors Lighthouse, built in 1892, this is the oldest lighthouse still in continuous operation in Minnesota. The red brick tower stands almost 50 feet tall and is open to the public for an admission fee during regular operating hours. The assistant keeper’s residence, pilot house and fog signal building, house historical exhibits. The light keeper’s dwelling is open all year round and operates as a bed and breakfast.
Split Rock Lighthouse
Two Harbors, Minnesota
Located in Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse rests approximately 20 miles north of Two Harbors. 54 feet high, it was built in 1910 atop a 130 foot sheer cliff overlooking Lake Superior. Explore the structure on your own, or take a guided tour led by characters in period clothing. Check out the interpretive exhibits and presentations. Explore the light keeper’s residence and outbuildings. You can even climb the 32 step spiral staircase to the lantern room to see the original turning lens. This is one of the most popular and most photographed Lake Superior Lighthouses on the Lake Superior Circle Tour. Come and see for yourself why it is so popular!
Grand Marais Lighthouse
Grand Marais, Minnesota
Grand Marais Lighthouse, built in 1885, is a square pyramidal skeleton style lighthouse located at the end of the eastern harbor breakwater. Visitors are able to access it by strolling the breakwater’s concrete walkway, which features a few flat rocky sections, much like the terrain at Artist’s Point to the left of the start of the breakwater. The old light keeper’s dwelling has been converted into the Cook County Historical Museum. The Lake Superior Grand Marais Public Water Access lot provides paved, and ample parking.
Angus Island Lighthouse
Thunder Bay, Ontario
Angus Island Lighthouse was established in 1927. This skeletal steel lighthouse is located on a small island off the south side of Pie Island, approximately 19 km from Thunder Bay in Ontario’s Superior Country. Still active, it was built to work in conjunction with the Trowbridge Island Lighthouse. It is best viewed via water in a charter or private boat.
Thunder Bay Main Lighthouse
Thunder Bay, Ontario
Thunder Bay Main Lighthouse lighthouse marks the entrance to the bustling Thunder Bay Harbor. Built in 1937, it is a two-story white and red dwelling with a lantern that stretches 43 feet (13 m) high. The breakwater is not connected to the mainland, and the lighthouse is not accessible to the public. However, it can be viewed from the water by boat and can be seen from the Thunder Bay Waterfront.
Trowbridge Island Lighthouse
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Thunder Bay, Ontario
Trowbridge Island is located within the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, north of the entrance to Thunder Bay. Trowbridge Island Lighthouse was established in 1924 and stands 39 feet (11.8 m) tall. It is still active, in conjunction with the Angus Island Lighthouse which is located on the south side of the entrance. The grounds are open to the public via private boat or charter. Access to the interior of the buildings is limited, but efforts are being made to restore the facilities.
Porphyry Island Lighthouse
Thunder Bay, Ontario
Located on the eastern side of the Black Bay Peninsula, Porphyry Island is 24.8 miles (40km) east of Thunder Bay. Porphyry Island Lighthouse is only accessible by boat, the closest launching point is Silver Islet, a short drive past Sleeping Giant Provincial Park and is one of the most popular Lake Superior Lighthouses on the Lake Superior Circle tour. Charter excursions can be booked out of the Thunder Bay Marina. The island is active in the summer months. Visitors are welcome to climb the 36 foot (10.9m) tall light tower, visit the museum and art gallery, and explore the islands unique volcanic geology. Take a rest in the Parks Canada Red Chairs and soak in views of the Lake from a unique perspective. Want to stay a little longer? Apply to be a volunteer lightkeeper – stay in the lightkeeper’s dwelling and get a sense of what it was like to work and live on Porphyry.
Shaganash Island Lighthouse
Island 10, Pass Lake, Ontario
Shaganash Island Lighthouse is actually located on an island west of Shaganash Island, 9.3 miles (15km) east of Porphyry Island Lighthouse. The buildings are closed to the public, but the grounds are open to visitors, with facilities including picnic tables and a “thunder box”. It is accessible only by boat.
Lamb Island Lighthouse
Lamb Island, Nipigon Straits, Ontario
Lamb Island Lighthouse is located in Ontario’s Superior Country at the south end of the Nipigon Straits 56 miles (90 km) east of Thunder Bay. A light tower was originally placed on Lamb Island in 1877 later to be replaced in 1961 with a 45 foot (13.6 meters) square, skeletal light tower. There are seven out buildings on the island that include; Lightkeeper’s Dwelling, Assistant Lightkeeper’s Dwelling, Generator Building, Pump House, Fog Plant, Boathouse, and Survival Building.
Battle Island Lighthouse
Rossport, Ontario
Located 5.7 miles (9.3 km) from Rossport, Battle Island Lighthouse was established to guide boats coming in from Lake Superior through Simpson Channel, into Nipigon Bay. The original lighthouse, built in 1871, was replaced in 1911. The grounds are open to the public, but the tower is closed. It can be viewed by private boat, commercial charter, or by kayak/canoe.
Slate Islands Lighthouse
Terrace Bay, Ontario
Slate Islands Lighthouse is located within Slate Island Provincial Park approximately 7.5 miles (12 km) south of Terrace Bay. Built in 1903, it can be accessed by boat, charter or for those more experienced, via kayak. It stands a whopping 224 feet above lake level, while the height of the tower itself is approximately 36 feet (10.9) m. The grounds are open to the public but there are no amenities. Some visitors have been lucky enough to spot members of a caribou herd that call the island home.
Otter Island Lighthouse
Heron Bay, Ontario
Otter Island Lighthouse is located on the northwest tip of Otter Island. Built in 1903, it is a white and red octagonal concrete light tower that stands 21 feet (6.5m) tall. The grounds to the lighthouse are closed to the public and should only be viewed from the water.
Davieaux Island Lighthouse
Davieaux Island, Ontario
Davieaux Island Lighthouse, established in 1918, is located near the Quebec Harbour of Michipicoten Island. Guiding vessels traveling between Thunder Bay and Sault Ste. Marie, it is a white and red octagonal concrete light tower that stands 44 feet (13.4 m) tall. It is closed to the public however the grounds are open and can be visited by boat or kayak.
Michipicoten Island East End Lighthouse
Michipicoten Provincial Park, Ontario
Michipicoten Island is located in Michipicoten Post Provincial Park, southwest of Wawa in Ontario’s Algoma Country. Michipicoten Island East End Lighthouse was built in 1912 with reinforced concrete supported by flying buttresses, this lighthouse stands at a towering 83 feet (25m) tall. It can be viewed by boat or sea plane. The tower is closed to the public, but the grounds are open.
Caribou Island Lighthouse
Southwest of Caribou Island, Ontario
Caribou Island Lighthouse was first established in 1886 and was rebuilt in 1912. A hexagonal concrete red and white structure, it stands a majestic 103 feet (31.5 m) tall. It is located 40 miles off the Canadian mainland and is the most isolated lighthouse on Lake Superior. Despite its name, it is actually located on a very small island about 1 mile (1.6 km) southwest of Caribou Island. The tower is closed and is best viewed from the water.
Michipocoten Harbour Lighthouse
Wawa, Ontario
Michipocoten Harbour Lighthouse, built in 1902, was updated in 1967 to the skeletal tower that stands 12.7 m tall today. It is located on the tip of Little Gros Cap at the entrance to Michipicoten Harbour, south of Wawa. The grounds include a keeper’s dwelling, boathouse, and helicopter pad. Best seen by boat, the tower is closed to the public.
Coppermine Point Lighthouse
Batchawana Bay, Ontario
This lighthouse was originally established in 1910 at the entrance to Pancake Bay and Batchawana Bay. In 1960 it was sold and transported off Hwy 17 in Hibbard Bay where it was transformed into an interesting feature for a restaurant. The restaurant has since closed, while the lighthouse is still standing. It is not open to the public but can be viewed from the outside.
Gros Cap Reefs Lighthouse
Sault Ste Marie, Ontario
Gros Cap Reefs Lighthouse is located near Sault Ste. Marie in Ontario’s Algoma Country. This 59 foot (18 m) tall light tower marks the beginning of the St. Marys River from Lake Superior and is adjacent to Point Iroquois in Michigan. It is in shallow water on southwest edge of Gros Cap Reef. It was first lit in 1953 and has a three story light keepers dwelling with skeletal tower.
Gros Cap is visible from Point Iroquois with binoculars, though it is best seen by from the water by boat.
Ile Parisienne Lighthouse
Algoma, Ontario
Located in the middle of Whitefish Bay, some 22 miles (35 km) from Sault Ste. Marie, Ile Parisienne Lighthouse was established as a beacon for shipping vessels moving through the Soo Locks. Built in 1911, it is still operational today. It is a concrete hexagonal structure that stands 54 feet (16.6M) tall. It can be viewed by boat or sea plane, but the lighthouse itself is not open to the public due to the high amount of shipping traffic in the area.
Visit Lake Superior Lighthouses
Although you might not be able to visit all the Lake Superior Lighthouses, make sure you choose at least a handful of lighthouses to add to your Lake Superior Circle Tour Itinerary. Whether you are a history buff, a photographer, a boater or a kayaker, these lighthouses are cultural gems of Lake Superior that are not to be missed! To plan your very own trip around Lake Superior use our Online Lake Superior Circle Tour Map and Trip Planner!
