Au Sable Light Station — Attraction in Burt Township

An Unforgettable Journey to Au Sable Light Station with Ranger Maggie

Our visit to the Au Sable Light Station was nothing short of magical, and it was made truly exceptional by the outstanding guidance of Ranger Maggie. If you are contemplating a trip to this historic and picturesque lighthouse, I wholeheartedly recommend it. Having Maggie as your guide will transform your visit into an educational and enchanting experience.

A Guide with Unmatched Knowledge and Enthusiasm

From the moment we arrived, it was clear that Ranger Maggie’s knowledge of Au Sable Light Station and its surrounding area was vast and profound. She welcomed us with a warm smile and began our tour with a brief history of the lighthouse. Maggie’s enthusiasm for the subject was infectious; her storytelling brought the history of the lighthouse to life, making us feel as if we were stepping back in time to when it was first constructed in the late 19th century.

Engaging and Personalized Experience

What sets Ranger Maggie apart is her ability to tailor the tour to the interests of her group. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to enjoy a scenic outing, Maggie ensures that you get the most out of your visit. She pointed out fascinating architectural details of the lighthouse, shared intriguing tales of the keepers who once lived there, and highlighted the importance of the lighthouse in maritime history. For nature enthusiasts, Maggie’s deep knowledge of the local flora and fauna added an extra layer of appreciation for the stunning environment surrounding the lighthouse.

Scenic Beauty and Hidden Treasures

The journey to Au Sable Light Station is an adventure in itself, with breathtaking views along the way. Ranger Maggie guided us along the beautiful trails that wind through the picturesque landscape of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Her familiarity with the area meant that we enjoyed both well-known vantage points and secluded spots that offered peace and tranquility. The views of Lake Superior were spectacular, and Maggie’s insights into the geological formations and natural history of the area made the scenery even more captivating.

Commitment to Conservation and Education

Ranger Maggie’s dedication to conservation and education was evident throughout the tour. She emphasized the importance of preserving the natural beauty and historical significance of the Au Sable Light Station for future generations. Her passion for protecting the environment and educating visitors about sustainable practices was truly inspiring. Maggie’s commitment to her role as both a guide and a steward of the park left a lasting impression on all of us.

Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere

Maggie’s friendly and approachable demeanor created a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged engagement and interaction. Her ability to connect with visitors of all ages made the tour enjoyable for everyone in our group. Whether she was sharing a humorous anecdote or answering questions with patience and depth, Maggie’s genuine love for her work was always apparent. Her enthusiasm made the experience not only informative but also incredibly enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, a visit to Au Sable Light Station is a must for anyone visiting the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The combination of its historical significance, stunning natural beauty, and the exceptional guidance of Ranger Maggie make it an unforgettable destination. Maggie’s extensive knowledge, passion for the environment, and warm personality enhance the experience beyond measure. We left with a deeper appreciation for both the lighthouse and the natural world, thanks to Maggie’s outstanding tour. Don’t miss the chance to explore this gem with one of the best guides around. We look forward to returning and continuing our adventure at Au Sable Light Station with...

50 Au Sable Lighthouse GPS: 46.672672,-86.139046 From FB Group, Michigan and Great Lakes Lighthouses In 1871 a light between White Fish Point and Grand Island Harbor was determined to be needed. The Lighthouse Board selected Big Sable Point as the site for the lighthouse and work began in 1873. A circular tower was built on a stone base. The tower is 86 feet tall with a circular gallery that is supported by sixteen cast-iron corbels. A spiral cast-iron stairway leads to the top of the tower and has a focal plane of 107 feet. In the spring of 1897 a redbrick fog signal building was completed built. To provide water for the ten-inch steam whistle, a crib, fitted with a well box, was built and sunk in Lake Superior.. A brick oil house was built at the station in 1895. In 1904 the iron smokestacks on the fog signal building was replaced with a 40 foot brick chimney. In 1909, the original dwelling was remodeled to create two separate apartments for the assistant keepers, and a new two-story dwelling was built west of the tower for the head keeper. The station was attended by two keepers, a head keeper and an assistant, until a second assistant was added in 1904. In 1913 the illuminant was changed from oil to incandescent oil vapor. The fog signal was converted in 1928 to an air diaphone. In 1910 control of the lighthouses to the Bureau of Lighthouses, the lighthouse was known as Big Sable Lighthouse, but for some reason, the Bureau of Lighthouses started using the name Au Sable Lighthouse. Au Sable Lighthouse was automated in 1958, and its keepers withdrawn. In 1968, Au Sable Light Station became part of the surrounding Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Volunteer “light keepers” now live in the upper floor of the head keeper’s dwelling and provide tours to visitors during the...

The hike is 3+ miles round trip from the parking lot but is not rough terrain (gravel path) and is mostly flat with a few gentle slopes. It was too much for us with little ones after a long day of other hikes, but it would be a great long hike to start the day! The view along the way is beautiful. You have woods on one side and the beach on the left beyond a thin line of trees. The beachside drops off into sandstone slabs that have been weathered beautifully by the waves. There is a beach access staircase about a mile in or so closer to the lighthouse. The lighthouse is beautiful, and the free museum on site was nice to walk through briefly. The caretakers were so kind and helpful. There’s a water fountain with a bottle spigot to refill water bottles or to fill a dog bowl. My feet were killing me by the end of the hike, but it was a...