Apostle Islands Lighthouses

Apostle Islands Lighthouses are eight separate towers built between 1856 and 1929 along Lake Superior's shores. They form a navigation system and display various architectural styles reflecting their individual construction periods.

Construction of the lighthouses began after the Soo Locks opened in 1855, which increased vessel traffic on Lake Superior. These structures were built to guide the growing number of ships safely through hazardous waters.

The lighthouses served as centers of community life on the islands, with keeper's houses and schooling facilities built around them. These structures shaped how families and workers organized their lives in this isolated setting.

Visiting these lighthouses requires ferry or private boat access since they are located on remote islands. Most tours run from June through September when weather is more stable and waters are easier to navigate.

The lighthouse on Michigan Island is notable because one of its towers was built in Pennsylvania in 1880 and later moved to the island in 1929. This long-distance relocation of a complete structure was an unusual undertaking for its time.

Location: Ashland County

Architects: United States Lighthouse Service

GPS coordinates: 46.99389,-90.60167

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:40