Big Sable Point Lighthouse, Ludington, Michigan

Big Sable Point Lighthouse, Ludington, Michigan

Maybe you don't think Michigan when you think of lighthouses. After all, the common notion of lighthouses is a beacon guiding ships to safe harbor from an ocean voyage.

View of Lake Michigan from the tower

But, with Great Lakes on three sides, Michigan is a very important state for shipping commerce. And because of of its massive coastline, it has the most lighthouses in the country!

Inside the tower

The New Sable Point lighthouse in Ludington, MI. From a distance the lighthouse appears to made of brick, painted black and white. However, the original Cream City Brick was covered in sheet metal because of deterioration. 

Lighthouse building viewed from the tower

In fact, deterioration has been a big problem at the site for decades. The foundation is subject to erosion and expensive repairs have been made over the years. Back in the 1940's, erosion claimed the fog signal building as the foundation was undermined and the building fell into Lake Michigan.

Today, the tower is still an aid to navigation, but it is not owned by the Coast Guard. The state of Michigan owns the site and it is managed by the Sable Points Light Keepers Association. They are currently trying to raise funds for more needed repairs.

Stairs inside the tower

If you want to get to the light, it takes a bit of work. You can drive your car to Ludington State Park (fee) and hike a 1.8 mile trail to the light. Some days in the summer there is a bus that takes you directly to the light. 

The sign says 1.5 miles, website says 1.8 miles. Who to believe?

The lighthouse is open from May through October and has daily tours. If you like, you can climb the tower (fee), which I highly recommend as the view is spectacular on clear days. 
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