Passage Island Light

Passage Island Light is a stone lighthouse with a square base that transitions to an octagonal shape, crowned by a ten-sided cast iron lantern. The structure stands approximately 44 feet tall and defines the island's landscape through its geometric form.

Construction began in 1881 after Congress allocated funds to improve maritime navigation in response to increased shipping driven by mining operations in the Upper Peninsula. The project directly addressed the growing need to guide vessels safely across Lake Superior.

This lighthouse represents the evolution of maritime safety infrastructure on Lake Superior, marking how vessels navigated between Thunder Bay and open waters. The location still reflects its importance as a waypoint for ships that relied on its light during journeys across the lake.

The lighthouse island is not open to the public, but visitors can reach it through guided tours that depart from Rock Harbor on Isle Royale. It is best to plan ahead since boat tours vary by season and water conditions.

The lighthouse keeper's residence is integrated directly into the tower structure, containing five rooms on the ground floor and two chambers upstairs. This design shows how keepers and their families lived in close connection with their work.

Location: Keweenaw County

Inception: 1882

Made from material: stone

Website: https://nps.gov/articles/000/passage-island-lighthouse.htm

GPS coordinates: 48.22351,-88.36587

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:27