Minneapolis Shoal rises from Green Bay on a massive concrete base, its red-banded tower marking the approach to Little Bay de Noc. In the hazy light of Todd’s boat visit, the station stands alone against water and sky.
Quick Facts
| Location | Green Bay, south of Peninsula Point, near Escanaba, Michigan |
|---|---|
| Waterway | Lake Michigan · Approach to Little Bay de Noc |
| Construction era | 1930s · Coast Guard dates first lighting to 1935 |
| Automation | 1979 |
| Design | Art Deco octagonal tower above an integral station building |
| Construction | Steel and reinforced concrete on a crib foundation |
| Navigation role | Active aid to navigation |
| Viewing | Offshore exterior views · No public tower access |
History & Description
A lightship marked this offshore location before the permanent station was built. Minneapolis Shoal warns vessels of shallow water on the approach to Little Bay de Noc.
The Coast Guard dates the station’s first lighting to 1935. Lighthouse Service reports describe the final equipment and furnishings being completed as the station entered full service in 1936.
The steel and reinforced-concrete structure reflects the practical Art Deco design of its era. Its octagonal tower rises above an integral station building and a broad concrete foundation. The design closely matches Grays Reef Lighthouse.
Automation came in 1979. The station remains an active navigation aid, with its weathered red band, white walls, dark lantern, and antenna creating a distinctive offshore silhouette.
Todd photographed the lighthouse during a charter trip through Green Bay. The approach photograph records the station emerging through the haze; the closer view shows warm sunlight beside the tower and reflections across the water.
Visitor Information
- Seeing the lighthouse
- This is an offshore destination. Arrange an exterior view with a boat operator familiar with Green Bay and confirm that Minneapolis Shoal is included in the route before booking.
- Access
- The lighthouse is not open to the public. Plan to photograph it from the water rather than land on the station or climb the tower.
- Planning
- Ask your captain about trip duration, departure location, and weather arrangements. Wind, waves, and visibility affect the route and the quality of offshore views.
- Photography
- Leave room around the broad base to show its scale. A faster shutter speed helps keep details sharp from a moving boat; haze and side lighting can create a different view from the usual clear-sky portrait.
Photo Gallery
Approaching the station and seeing it up close. Select a photograph to view it larger.
Explore Green Bay
Read our Minneapolis Shoal visit story →
Discover Grays Reef Lighthouse →