Passage Island Lighthouse

Guarding the primary maritime passage between Thunder Bay and the open lake.

NPS / PAUL BROWN

Quick Facts

Designation:

National Register of Historic Places

OPEN TO PUBLIC:

No

MANAGED BY:

United States Coast Guard

Amenities

2 listed

Dock/Pier, Scenic View/Photo Spot

On the northeast side of Isle Royale National Park, the Passage Island Lighthouse guides ship traffic between the channel of Isle Royale's main island and Passage Island. Completed in 1882, the lighthouse originally used a Fourth Order oil-burning wick lamp and appeared as a fixed red light; later, it was modified to a flashing white light. Concession tours travel to the island, giving visitors a glimpse of this now automated and unmanned sentinel of the past that continues to provide safe passage to ships today.

Learn about the history of the Passage Island Lighthouse.

Explore the History & Culture of Isle Royale National Park.