Big Sable Point Lighthouse in Ludington, Michigan | Photo by Todd and Brad Reed

Big Sable Point Lighthouse at the Ludington State Park

The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan and remains a testament to lighthouse keepers of the past. Big Sable Point Lighthouse was honored as 2013 Featured Lighthouse of the Year for the Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival.

Lighthouse History & Facts

Standing on ground formerly known by French explorers as Grande Point au Sable, the Lighthouse Board recommended a beacon be placed in Ludington. In 1867, Big Sable Point Lighthouse was constructed, and on November 1 of that year, mariners as far as 19 miles out on the lake saw a constant white light for the first time. Climate has not been kind to the lighthouse, and in early 1900, the tower had deteriorated so badly that cement was poured between the plates and brick. It was at this time that the black and white daymark was introduced. In 1949, Big Sable Point became the last Great Lakes light to be electrified, and automation of the light eliminated the need for a keeper, though the Coast Guard staffed the light until 1972.

Erosion has always been a problem at Big Sable Point, and in 1943, a seawall was built to help control the problem. But because the light was unmanned, the virtually abandoned property deteriorated further. In 1987, the Big Sable Point Lighthouse Keepers Association was formed, guaranteeing the preservation of this historic landmark. Restoration work began on the seawall, the original Fresnel lens was replaced, the building exterior and tower were painted and floors were refinished.

The Big Sable Point Lighthouse is listed on both the state and national registers of historic places. It is one of the tallest in the state of Michigan at over 100 feet. From May-October, visitors can hike the 1.8 miles from the parking lot to the beach and climb the 130 steps to the top of the tower, which offers a spectacular view. The original keeper’s quarters houses a gift shop, where you can pick up a memento of your visit. Thanks to the Lighthouse Keepers Association, Big Sable Point Lighthouse and three other area lighthouses will continue to beautify the coastline and allow people to enjoy their importance to our maritime history.

Directions to Big Sable Point Lighthouse

Follow US-10 west as it turns into Ludington Avenue, turn right onto M-116 and drive north up to the Ludington State Park. Walk 1.8 miles to reach the lighthouse.