White Shoal Light

White Shoal Light is a white tower with red spiral bands standing on a concrete platform about 20 miles west of Mackinac Bridge. The structure rises approximately 37 meters from the water and serves as a navigation aid for vessels crossing Lake Michigan.

The lighthouse was completed in 1910 as the result of four decades of engineering efforts to build navigation structures on remote shoals. It represents the conclusion of a long-planned series of projects designed to improve safety for ships crossing Lake Michigan.

The lighthouse serves as a vital navigational marker for boats crossing Lake Michigan and represents the maritime heritage of the region. Its distinctive red spiral pattern on white makes it instantly recognizable to sailors traveling these waters.

Reaching the lighthouse requires approximately 90 minutes by boat from Mackinaw City and involves climbing a steep metal ladder to enter. Visitors should be prepared for Lake conditions and the physical effort required to access the structure.

The structure is finished with an aluminum coating rather than cast iron like most other Great Lakes lighthouses. This material choice distinguishes it from its neighbors and makes it a less obvious engineering detail to notice.

Location: Emmet County

Height: 37 m

GPS coordinates: 45.84168,-85.13567

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:28