Au Sable Light

Au Sable Light is a brick lighthouse standing on Lake Superior's southern shore in Michigan, rising approximately 27 meters tall. The structure displays Italianate design with a circular tower and cast-iron corbels supporting its viewing gallery.

The lighthouse was built in 1874 to fill a gap in navigation safety along this stretch of Lake Superior's shore. The structure represented an important advancement in guiding ships through waters that had previously lacked proper maritime markers.

The lighthouse takes its name from the nearby Au Sable River that flows through the coastal landscape. Visitors can see how this waterway shaped the area and understand why this spot was chosen for maritime protection.

Access is by marked hiking trails from either Hurricane River Campground or Log Slide Overlook. Visitors should prepare for changing weather conditions and wear sturdy shoes, as routes pass through forested areas and along the shoreline.

The lighthouse served as a lifeline for ships navigating treacherous rocky waters offshore during severe weather. The keepers who worked here played roles far beyond simply maintaining the light, often responding to emergencies on the lake.

Location: Burt Township

Inception: 1874

Architects: Orlando Metcalfe Poe

Architectural style: Italianate architecture

Height: 27 m

Made from material: brick

GPS coordinates: 46.67278,-86.13917

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:06