Keweenaw Waterway Upper Entrance Light Beacon Station

McLain State Park Road, Hancock, MI 49930

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4.7 25

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McLain State Park Road, Hancock, Michigan 49930, United States

lighthousefriends.com

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Welcome to the Keweenaw Waterway Upper Entrance Light Beacon Station, a historic maritime landmark nestled within the scenic beauty of McLain State Park in Hancock, Michigan. This iconic beacon has guided vessels through the Keweenaw Waterway, a vital shortcut for ships navigating between Marquette and eastern ports like Ashland and Duluth, especially during the stormy fall season when its protected waters are preferred over the open expanse of Lake Superior.

The lighthouse's rich history dates back to 1874, when it was first established to illuminate the entrance to the Portage Lake Ship Canal. Over the years, it has undergone numerous transformations, from its original brick structure to the current square, white tower that stands proudly with a focal plane of eighty-two feet. This tower, built in 1950, is reminiscent of other mid-20th-century lighthouses found in Conneaut, Ohio, Port Washington, Wisconsin, and Indiana Harbor, Indiana.

Visitors to the Keweenaw Waterway Upper Entrance Light can explore the remnants of the shore station, including the 1938 triplex, a barn, and the fog signal building, which offer a glimpse into the life of lighthouse keepers who once diligently maintained this beacon. Notably, the station was home to James E. Collins, a dedicated keeper who served for thirty-nine years and was honored with the Albert Gallatin Award for his service.

While modern Great Lakes freighters may no longer traverse the Keweenaw Waterway due to their size, the passage remains a cherished route for pleasure craft and occasional excursion vessels. Whether you're a history enthusiast, maritime aficionado, or simply seeking a picturesque spot to enjoy the natural beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the Keweenaw Waterway Upper Entrance Light Beacon Station promises a memorable visit.

For those planning to explore the area, several hotels are conveniently located nearby, offering comfortable accommodations to enhance your experience at this historic lighthouse. Come and immerse yourself in the captivating history and serene surroundings of the Keweenaw Waterway Upper Entrance Light Beacon Station.

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Fred Stark:

"Nice to see up close, probably not my smartest hike along the rocks out there and back."

1 year ago

Tim Szczesny:

"McLain State Park was a great stop with a walkable and swimmable beach. We really enjoyed walking out on the pier to the lighthouse. Plan an hour or two for that."

1 year ago

Amber Yanovich:

"Not a pretty historic lighthouse but unique nonetheless. Viewable from McLain State Park so you will need a state park sticker. Bathroom facilities available near the beach with a nice walkway to beach."

almost 2 years ago

Alicia Schetgen Becker:

"The rocks are nothing you have seen before. And you can walk across them to get to the edge of the water to see an endless view of lake superior"

almost 4 years ago

Nathan Miller:

"A very utilitarian lighthouse that marks the upper entrance to the Keweenaw Waterway. It's not open to the public but is easily viewed from the beaches at McLain State Park and Breakers. It's a rather new lighthouse and not a beautiful historic structure like some of the other lighthouses in the area. No less scenic though!"

more 6 years ago

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Keweenaw Waterway Upper Entrance Light Beacon Station

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