Crisp Point Light

” Life is a JOURNEY that must be TRAVELED no matter how bad the roads and accommodations.” – Oliver Goldsmith

Crisp Point Lighthouse was first proposed in 1896 and every year till June 1902 when it was approved. The 15 acres of land and shoreline that make up the property was purchased for just $30.00. The tower stands at 58 feet, no the tallest tower by any means, but it’s still beautiful. The shoreline from Whitefish Point to Grand Island, just off Munising, is knows as the “shipwreck coast.” Crisp Point served as one of five life saving stations along this stretch. Along with the tower stood a white framed boathouse, barn, brick oil house and two out building. All of them were demolished due to the elements and neglect. The tower was almost lost too, it was slowly leaning into the lake. Thankfully to the Crisp Point Lighthouse Historical Society and the many volunteers the tower is back in pristine condition.

To get to the lighthouse you must make an eighteen mile long drive down a road that is probably better suited for an ORV. County Road 500 can be found just west of the Upper Falls on the Tahquamenon  River on US-123. The road then takes you down 12 miles of a dirt road. Then  will make a right hand turn onto County Road 412 for the remaining six and a half miles. BE SURE TO HAVE A FULL TANK OF GAS!! You will be a ways off the beaten path so make sure you are prepared for that and take your time. Beautiful scenery along the way, plenty of opportunity to see some Michigan wildlife. Along the road are various state camp grounds. One of which sits right on the shores of a small inland lake. Something about the drive, when you think you’ve gone a few miles, it’ll most likely end up to be just a mile.

Approaching the lighthouse the trees open up giving you a spectacular view of Lake Superior. Take the time and stop the car and take in the view, the standing pines make a beautiful picture frame. The lighthouse is just a couple minuets ahead. Next to the parking lot is the lighthouse gift shop and bathrooms. In front of the parking lot is the camping spot for the care takers. I’m not sure exactly how this works but I’m assuming you can sign up for an amount of time to camp and be the host of the lighthouse. Make the bathrooms, the tower and the grounds remain tidy. Following along the gift shop a path will lead you to a short flight of stairs to take you down to the lake. A rocky beach will meet your feet as you make your way to Lake Superior. This is a very beautiful view, unlike being able to see Canada at Whitefish Point, there is nothing on the horizon. You can really get a sense of how desolate you are. From the lake the lighthouse will be to your right or the east. Just a lone tower stand with a little attached dwelling. Unlike some lighthouses there isn’t a keepers quarters, that was demolished some years ago. You are allowed to climb the tower. It’s a nice short climb and the view is worth it. The fourth order Fresnel lens has been replaced and fully automated by LED. The tower is whitewashed with a black cat walk and a red roof and ventilator bulb. The attached building is red brick, white trimmed windows and a red metal roof to match the tower.

Although a ways from any form of civilization Crisp Point stands as a reminder. To the keepers who called this place home to ensure our boats remain safe. To the many volunteers who put their time to preserve this beautiful place for all of us to enjoy. Just make the drive once to cross this off your Michigan bucket list. I’ve done it, and I will again. There’s really something special about this place, don’t overlook it.