Alpena Light

Alpena Light is a navigation lighthouse standing at the mouth of Thunder Bay River where it meets Lake Huron in Michigan. The current skeletal steel tower, built in 1914, rises about 67 feet and features a distinctive red lantern room at its top.

Congress approved funding in 1867 to build the first wooden lighthouse at this location. As navigation demands changed, the structure was replaced multiple times, leading to the current steel tower constructed in 1914.

This lighthouse serves as a recognizable landmark for the region's maritime traffic and represents the area's connection to Great Lakes navigation. It stands as a testament to the importance of safe passage through these waters.

The lighthouse projects a white beam that can be seen from miles away and continues to guide ships through Thunder Bay's challenging waters. Viewing is best from nearby shoreline areas, especially during daylight or early evening hours.

Three separate lighthouse structures have occupied this exact location over time, each designed to meet the changing demands of maritime traffic. The current tower was among the first to use electric illumination instead of open flame.

GPS coordinates: 45.06038,-83.42307

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:22