Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Pierhead Front Lighthouse

Historical SiteSturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

Red navigational light on the Lake Michigan breakwall

About

Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Pierhead Front Lighthouse is a historical landmark in Sturgeon Bay, located where the ship canal meets Lake Michigan. Visitors can walk the lower concrete breakwall pier directly out to our bright red tower structure, which was built in 1882 as part of a harbor range light system. Free parking is situated just outside the active U.S. Coast Guard station gate.

Larry Early
a month ago

Easy access and nice to view the property and walk to the front lighthouse.

Shannon Fr
2 months ago

Walk the plank to visit this lighthouse gem!! We had an elderly guest and they were able to CAREFULLY maneuver out almost to the end of the walk. Don’t worry, the Coast Guard is right there if you fall in lol - stay on the ‘public’ path… I wish there were signs/informational plaques about the property…

Mark B
2 months ago

If you are interested in lighthouses, this is certainly worth the quick stop. I had never seen a light house quite like this one and appreciated the piece of history. It’s a short and scenic walk to get to and you walk right by the rear lighthouse, so as far as i was concerned, this was a “2 for 1 special!” It’s not far off the main roads in door county and is an easy, quick stop. Definitely worth the stop!

RJ Rauen
2 months ago

Visited the iconic, bright red Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Pierhead Light, which provides a stunning backdrop along Lake Michigan. For clarity, while the upper iron catwalk and the interior tower are restricted, visitors are fully permitted to take the scenic walk out along the lower concrete breakwall pier to stand right next to the structure. Be sure to use caution as the lower concrete can get slippery in rough weather. It is fascinating to see how this beacon functions as part of a larger range light system; it works directly with the tall white skeletal tower further inland and a third light installation along the canal to guide vessels safely into the harbor entrance. Free parking is available in the lot outside the active U.S. Coast Guard station gate

Mikayla S
3 months ago

Absolutely worth the stop if you are exploring Door County. The stark red cast-iron tower against the bright blue water of Lake Michigan is stunning. While you cannot actually climb the tower, walking out onto the massive lower-level concrete breakwater is an amazing experience. You get right out on the water under the elevated iron walkway and can watch the ships navigating the historic canal. This spot was unique in my eyes because it is located right next to a U.S. Coast Guard station.

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