Inside the Loneliest Lighthouse in Michigan

One of Michigan's quirkiest abandoned places is the Waugoshance Lighthouse in Emmet County, just off Waugoshance Island, west – and part - of Wilderness State Park. The lighthouse sits all alone way out in water only around 12 feet deep. It was constructed in 1851 and operated until 1912 after guiding the way for many ships and boats.

2026 marks the lighthouse's 175th anniversary...but it wasn’t the first lighthouse placed here.

In 1832 the Great Lakes’ first lighthouse was put on this site. It was called the Lois McLain and made of wood – already destined not to last the harsh weather of the Great Lakes. In 1851 the wood structure was replaced by the Waugoshance Light, still standing in what is believed to be one of the most hazardous areas near the Straits of Mackinac.

Get our free mobile app

The Waugoshance was the first Great Lakes lighthouse that was totally surrounded by water. The pier was reconstructed in 1870 and used a "bird cage" lantern, one of only three on the Great Lakes.

During the 1940's, this poor old lighthouse was used by the US Navy for World War 2 bombing & target practices. Even so, it withstood all the abuse and still stands, deteriorated, unowned and ramshackle. Nowadays, people paddle, row, and motorboat out to the old lighthouse for closer looks, photos and video.

If it's lasted for 175 years, then it'll be around long enough for you to visit sometime..... unless someone who doesn’t care about – or appreciate – history, decides to tear it down.....like so many other of Michigan’s architectural treasures.