Beyond the beach grasses, Ludington’s white lighthouse stands where the harbor opens into Lake Michigan. Also known as the Ludington North Breakwater Light, its tapered steel tower and dark, angular base give it a distinctive silhouette. Todd’s photographs follow that silhouette from the shore to a close view of the tower’s riveted walls.
Quick Facts
| Location | North breakwater, Ludington, Michigan |
|---|---|
| Waterway | Lake Michigan · Pere Marquette Harbor |
| Current tower first lit | 1924 |
| Tower height | 57 feet |
| Construction | Square pyramidal steel tower on a wave-breaking base |
| Status | Active navigation light |
| Ownership | City of Ludington |
| Stewardship | Lakeshore Keepers, in partnership with the city |
| Access | Pier walk; seasonal tower climbs |
History & Description
The present tower first shone in 1924. It stands at the harbor’s outer entrance, guiding vessels between the breakwaters as they approach Ludington from Lake Michigan.
The 57-foot tower narrows toward its black lantern, with round windows punctuating its white steel sides. Its angular base was designed to deflect the force of waves and ice. Seen up close, the rows of rivets and the pronounced taper reveal the practical engineering behind its memorable shape.
Lakeshore Keepers has operated the light in partnership with the City of Ludington since 2006. The beacon remains an active navigation light while seasonal climbs give visitors a view across the harbor and lake.
Visitor Information
Stearns Park Beach provides the starting point for the walk to the lighthouse and a shoreline view for anyone who prefers to stay on land.
- Getting there
- Begin at Stearns Park in downtown Ludington and follow the north pier toward the light. The walk is approximately half a mile each way.
- Pier conditions
- The exposed pier can be unsafe when waves wash over it. Follow posted closures and stay on shore during high winds, high waves, or icy conditions.
- Tower visits
- Climbs are offered seasonally and depend on weather and operating conditions. Confirm the current schedule with Lakeshore Keepers before planning a climb.
- Photography
- The beach offers a broad composition with grasses in the foreground. On a calm day, closer views from the pier highlight the round windows, steel panels, and black lantern.
Photo Gallery
Three photographs by Todd. Select a photograph to view it larger.