Minnesota Point Light

Minnesota Point Light is a red brick lighthouse rising about 15 meters above the water at the southern tip of Minnesota Point in Duluth. The structure features white mortar coating and was built to guide ships navigating Lake Superior's challenging waters.

The lighthouse was built in 1858 as Minnesota's first and became a reference point for early navigational surveys of Lake Superior. It was later deactivated as newer navigation technology made it less essential for shipping safety.

The lighthouse emerged from the needs of growing ship traffic on Lake Superior and reflects how maritime safety shaped this region. Its location at Minnesota Point shows how early settlers used the geography to guide vessels through dangerous waters.

The site is accessible via walking paths that let you view the tower from different angles and explore the Minnesota Point area at your own pace. Open access to the waterfront lets you visit the historic structure without rushing through your visit.

The original setup included a fifth-order Fresnel lens that produced a fixed red light to guide ships through the narrow Superior Entry channel. This specialized optical technology was advanced for its time and helped ship captains safely navigate the dangerous harbor entrance.

Location: Duluth

Height: 15 m

Made from material: brick

GPS coordinates: 46.71000,-92.02590

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:21