Frankfort’s white lighthouse stands at the outer end of a long concrete breakwater, a narrow vertical shape against the open lake. From the beach, dune grasses frame the tower; closer views reveal its broad lower section, tapered upper walls, and dark lantern gallery. In winter, the pale structure belongs to a landscape of snow, sand, and cold green water.
Quick Facts
| Location | Frankfort · Benzie County, Michigan |
|---|---|
| Waterway | Lake Michigan · entrance to Betsie Lake |
| First harbor light | 1873 |
| Upper tower | 1912 |
| Present configuration | Relocated and raised onto a new base in 1932 |
| Tower form | White tapered steel tower on a two-story base |
| Ownership | City of Frankfort |
| Access | Exterior views from the beach and harbor area |
History & Description
Frankfort’s harbor links Betsie Lake with Lake Michigan. A pierhead light first marked the entrance in 1873, and successive harbor improvements required the lights to move as the piers extended farther into the lake.
The steel tower associated with the present lighthouse served on the north pier in 1912. A larger harbor project brought new outer breakwaters, and in 1932 the tower and fog signal were carried by scow to the north breakwater. A new two-story base lifted the older tower above its exposed setting.
That combination explains the lighthouse’s unusual proportions: a broad, straight-sided lower section beneath a slender tapered tower. Circular openings, panel seams, and a dark gallery give the white structure a practical industrial character.
The light is closely tied to Frankfort’s shipping and car-ferry history. Ownership transferred to the City of Frankfort in 2011, continuing its place as a landmark at the harbor entrance.
Visitor Information
- Getting there
- Start at Frankfort’s Lake Michigan beachfront near the west end of Main Street. The beach and harbor approaches offer views of the lighthouse and the long breakwaters.
- Viewing the light
- Exterior views from shore are the simplest way to enjoy the station. Do not assume the tower is open; check local notices and respect all barriers and posted access restrictions.
- Breakwater conditions
- Waves can wash over the concrete, and wet surfaces, snow, and ice can make footing dangerous. Stay ashore during rough conditions. The beach offers strong photographic views without walking onto the breakwater.
- Photography
- Dune grass and winter snow make useful foregrounds. Longer lenses isolate the lighthouse, while wider views show the scale of the harbor structures and waves. Remain on permitted routes and protect dune vegetation.
Historical references: Lighthousefriends’ Frankfort station history and the U.S. Coast Guard’s Frankfort Light record.
Photo Gallery
Winter views of the lighthouse, dunes, and harbor entrance. Select any photograph to view it larger.