5 Lighthouses to Explore in Huron County
Checkout places to visit in Huron County
Huron County, Michigan is a wonderful place to live! Located in the northern part of the lower peninsula, this county is home to 43 mile long Lake Huron. Visitors and residents alike take advantage of all recreational activities that come with living near one of the Great Lakes. There are also plenty of options for shopping, dining, and entertainment no matter what your interest may be. Besides a bright waterfront lifestyle, the area offers numerous tourist attractions like lighthouses, golf cou
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Lighthouses to Explore in Huron County
Fort Gratiot Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in the state and was built in 1829 to mark the entrance of the St. Clair River into Lake Huron. The lighthouse stands 70 ft tall and boasts a unique octagonal shape, making it easily recognizable from miles away. Taken over by the Coast Guard in 1939, it once served as a navigational aid for watercraft traffic along Lake Huron. Today, it remains an important part of the community's culture and history.
The Goderich Lighthouse constructed in 1858 and looming at 65 feet tall, the structure provides a picturesque beacon from the Port of Goderich. Visitors can explore the area and enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking and fishing. Stairs at the base of the building reach up to a miniature balcony, ready to grant panoramic views of the region. Furthermore, folk art displays on the doorways honor local traditions along with colorful gardensgreens the lighthouse.
The Harbor Beach Lighthouse has been guiding ships to safety for nearly 140 years. Standing over sixty feet tall, the light tower is the tallest on Lake Huron and remains an active aid to navigation today. Built from brick, a process that stretched two years from 1888 to 1890, the light was powered by kerosene until 1987 when it was electrified. While the grounds of the Harbor Beach Lighthouse are not accessible to the public.
The Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse is a beacon of maritime history on Lake Huron. Established in 1848, it was the third lighthouse built along the Great Lakes, serving as a navigational aid to ships and their crews. Standing at 50-feet-tall, the limestone tower is an impressive sight with its two black lanterns shining brightly. This white painted beacon was automated in 1933, but was decommissioned in 2002.
Pt. Austin Lighthouse is quite a beautiful sight. The harbor and lake near the point of sunrise was known as dangerous to ships and sailors in the 1800's. In 1871, Congress approved an appropriation for the lighthouse and it came into existence by 1876. Even now, you can take tours to the top of the tower, which stands 70 feet tall with a 280-degree waterfront view. An additional structure included is a fog signal building that has been replaced twice.