Lighthouses of Lake Michigan

Travel on the Great Lakes can be treacherous. 

 As early as the beginning of the 19th century, lighthouse construction was commissioned to guide vessels around dangerous points and into safe harbors.

Grand Traverse Lighthouse

On the Lake Michigan leg of my 

1000-Mile Great Lakes Walk 

I came across some wonderful lights that guided ships long ago.

Grand Traverse Lighthouse

South Manitou Lighthouse

Point Betsie

Manistee channel light

Ludington Lighthouse

Ludington (Big Sable) Lighthouse

I have completed 987 miles of my journey and will finish my hike along the Niagara River 

-- culminating at Niagara Falls -- 

in October!

National Lighthouse Day, August 7

On this National Lighthouse day (first established in 1789), I'd like to share some photos I took while on my adventure.














Seeing these sentinels on the lakeshore was always a welcome sight as I walked. I can imagine that they were a comforting beacon to early lake travelers.


There are many preservation groups working to maintain and conserve these historic lights. And there are several around the lake that seek out the help of volunteers.

I spent a week working at the Grand Traverse Lighthouse (below) in November 2009. It was fun to stay in the keepers' house and to climb the light tower to watch the sunset every evening. I worked in the gift shop and helped to get the buildings ready for the harsh winter and raked leaves. It was a great week and I met some wonderful people who also have a bond with this important part of our Great Lakes heritage.

Visit YOUR favorite lighthouse this summer and see what YOU can do to help preserve it. To learn more about this special day for lighthouses, click HERE.