Big Sable Point Lighthouse — Attraction in Hamlin Township

11 Big Sable Point Lighthouse GPS: 44.057022,-86.514717 From FB Group: Michigan and Great Lakes Lighthouses Named Grande Pointe au Sable by French explorers, Big Sable Point was a prominent landmark for mariners traveling this treacherous stretch of Lake Michigan. Work on the lighthouse started in July of 1866. A stone foundation was first prepared a brick tower was built that tapered from 19 feet at its base to 13 feet at the lantern room. 8 windows provided light for the tower’s interior. The upper portion of the 112-foot tower consists of a watch room, encircled by a gallery, and the lantern room, in which a third-order Fresnel lens was installed. The dwelling for the keepers was connected to the southern side of the tower by a 14-foot-long covered passageway. The 1-1/2 story house had an apartment on the ground floor for the keeper and one upstairs for the assistant keeper. The tower was lit for the first time on November 1, 1867, that could be seen for up to nineteen miles. A circular iron oil house was erected south of the lighthouse in 1893. In 1899 the tower needed repair. In 1900 the tower was encased in 18 metal cylinders, with different diameters, that were placed one on top of the other. The metal had a thickness of 3/8th”, and the space between the cylinders and the tower was filled with concrete. When completed in, the metal tower was painted white with its middle third black. In 1916 the color of the watch room and lantern room was changed from white to black. A brick oil house was added in 1903. In 1905, the upper portion of the tower inclosing the watch room was encased with metal. A brick fog signal building was built in 1908 and fitted with 2 twenty-two HP engines and compressors. The compressed air was stored in a tank before exiting the building through a 6-foot trumpet. The fog signal sounded 2 blasts every 45 seconds. In 1926, 800 acres around the lighthouse was made into a state park. By 1941 a new skeletal tower, topped by an enclosed wooden section, was built to house the fog signal equipment and the old fog signal building demolished. Interlocking steel pilings were driven in front of the station in 1943 to protect the station from the advancing waters of...

Stepping onto the soft, sugar-like sands of Ludington's beaches is an instantly transportive experience, whisking you away from the stresses and demands of everyday life and immersing you in a serene, restorative oasis. The rhythmic crashing of the azure waves against the shoreline creates a soothing, meditative ambiance, inviting you to slow down, unwind, and simply be present in the moment. Ludington's 26 miles of Lake Michigan coastline provide the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories with family and friends. It's no wonder that seasoned Travel Addicts have hailed this stretch of shoreline as one of the best beaches in the world - the serene natural beauty, ample recreational activities, and overall sense of escapism make it an unparalleled destination for those seeking a true respite from the hustle and bustle. And just beyond the sandy shores lies another Ludington treasure - the iconic Big Sable Lighthouse. This striking black and white beacon, accessible via a 1.8-mile hike through the diverse landscapes of Ludington State Park, offers visitors a chance to step back in time and learn about the lighthouse's rich history. Scaling the stairs to the top of the structure rewards adventurous climbers with a breathtaking, panoramic view of the glistening Lake Michigan shoreline, a perspective that is sure to leave a lasting impression long after the...

Big Sable Point is my favorite lighthouse to visit. beautiful place to see, but even more amazing if you have an opportunity to stay overnight. I think you can volunteer as a lighthouse keeper or follow their Facebook page for auction info. and bid when they have their auctions. The office manager Cheri is always helpful and informative.

Our opportunity to stay came as a silent auction item. I won a bid on a weekend stay, Big Sable donated the auction item to a fundraiser for The Everdry Plungers' Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Michigan.

I have visited many times over the years. the walk from the parking area is about 1.8 miles, but on a well groomed road, so easy walking.

This is a well kept lighthouse with wonderful Lake Michigan views. Clean and in great condition. If you would like to support upkeep, they have a really cool boardwalk surrounding the lighthouse, and you can get a board engraved with your name, a company name or a tribute to a lost loved one for a very resonable price. We've done 3 so far and it's awesome to walk through and see the boards as part of the landscape.

If you love lighthouses, You don't want to miss Big Sable Point! (Be sure to check their website for...