West Point Light

West Point Light is a wooden tower with white markings situated at the northeastern end of West Point overlooking the Hudson River. The structure features a square design and once housed a sixth order Fresnel lens to guide river traffic past the Military Academy.

Construction of the lighthouse began in 1853 as part of efforts to improve navigation along the Hudson River. Operations ended in 1946 when modern navigational technology made the structure obsolete.

The light tower represents an important part of Hudson River maritime heritage and continues to be recognized as a historical landmark. Visitors can observe how it reflects the region's connection to river navigation.

The lighthouse sits on the Hudson River shoreline in Orange County, roughly 45 miles north of lower Manhattan. Access is best achieved from water viewpoints or along nearby hiking trails that offer views of the site.

The tower remains supported by wooden and stone work that helps maintain its historic wooden structure against the elements. The site offers views across to Constitution Island while the nearby Crow's Nest hill creates a distinctive backdrop to the landmark.

Location: Orange County

Inception: 1853

GPS coordinates: 41.39580,-73.95080

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:40