Poe Reef Light

Poe Reef Light is a navigation beacon on Lake Huron in Michigan standing about 17 meters tall with a distinctive square tower, red roof, and white-and-black bands. The structure sits directly on a reef beneath the lake surface and contains three stories of living quarters built into its concrete foundation.

This beacon was built in 1929 and replaced several lightships that previously marked the treacherous shipping route through northern Lake Huron. Construction on the reef was a technical solution for waters that posed constant challenges to maritime traffic.

This beacon represents the maritime heritage of the Great Lakes and shows how critical navigation aids are for shipping in this region. Its red roof and distinctive white-and-black bands make it an easily recognized landmark from the water.

The best way to see this lighthouse is through summer boat tours departing from Mackinaw City that pass by Round Island and Bois Blanc Island. Keep in mind that the structure stands in the lake and is viewable only from the water at a distance.

The structure was originally equipped with an automated rotating light and operated for years without a permanent resident keeper. This system allowed the remote reef location to continue guiding ships while remaining largely unattended.

Location: Cheboygan County

Inception: 1929

Height: 17 m

Website: https://lighthousefriends.com/light.asp?ID=709

GPS coordinates: 45.69413,-84.36183

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:04