St Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse — Attraction in Saint Joseph

The inner and outer lighthouses on the St. Joseph, MI piers are iconic examples of Great Lakes lighthouses. These are one of only a handful of structures that retain the catwalk historically used by lighthouse keepers to access the lights in rough weather. I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the pier and lighthouses offered during the summer months.

Both the North and South Piers are walkable and open to the public. However, having lived here my whole life I would advise caution when walking on the piers. Absolutely do not try to go on them if waves are overtopping them. You might see folks jumping off the piers into the lake, but there are large rocks next to the piers that are hard to see. The surfaces are uneven in places creating trip hazards. And any wet areas are likely covered in a very slippery algae that is like walking on ice. With that said thousands of folks walk the piers every month without difficulty and they are definitely worth the adventure.

The lighthouses are located on the North Pier, which is accessed by parking at Tiscornia Park. Paid parking is provided in this city park; the beach here is nice, wide, and flat. This side is quieter, but beyond bathrooms there are no facilities. If you want to walk up to or take a tour of the lighthouses this is the place to start.

The South Pier often provides better photo opportunities, especially at sunset.This pier is accessed by parking at Silver Beach County Park. In addition to bathrooms this park features a nice wide beach, food vendors, a playground, and access to the free splash pad and Silver Beach pizza. The downside is that this park is very popular in the summer and it is often crowded and the parking lot can fill by...

A Walk Through History with an Unbeatable View

I just spent the afternoon visiting the St. Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse, and it was an absolutely fantastic experience. The walk out on the pier is an event in itself. With the vast expanse of Lake Michigan on one side and the river channel on the other, the sound of the waves and the fresh breeze set the perfect stage for what's to come.

Seeing the iconic red-and-white Inner Lighthouse and the classic black-and-white Outer Lighthouse at the end of the pier is like stepping into a postcard. I paid the small fee to climb to the top of the Inner Lighthouse, and it was worth every penny. The climb up the spiral staircase and the final ladder to the lantern room is a fun little adventure, and the reward is a stunning 360-degree panoramic view. Watching the boats navigate the channel and seeing the shoreline stretch out for miles was simply breathtaking.

The volunteers were friendly and shared interesting facts about the lighthouse's history. It’s amazing to stand in a structure that has guided ships safely for over a century. Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or just looking for a memorable walk with a spectacular payoff, I can't recommend this enough. It’s a true...

The St. Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse is a beautiful and historic landmark located in St. Joseph, Michigan. This lighthouse was built in 1907 and has been a beacon for ships and boats entering the harbor for over a century.

The lighthouse is located on the north pier of the St. Joseph River and is surrounded by beautiful views of the lake and the city. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery.

The lighthouse itself is a beautiful white structure with a red roof and a black lantern on top. It is well-maintained and in excellent condition, and is a great example of the architecture of the early 20th century.

The interior of the lighthouse is not open to the public, but visitors can still get a glimpse of the inside through the windows. The lighthouse is also a great spot for photography and is a popular location for wedding and engagement photos.

Overall, the St. Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse is a must-see for anyone visiting St. Joseph. It is a beautiful and historic landmark that offers great views and a glimpse into the past. It is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery, and is a great spot for photography. Highly recommend visiting...