Lighthouses of Michigan - Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse

The Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse is one of the most photographed and iconic lighthouses on Lake Superior, located off Munising, Michigan.​​

Prints & Downloads

Map to the Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse

Lighthouse Keepers
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  • Abel F. Ashley (1868–1873)
    • The first keeper, appointed when the light was established.
    • A Civil War veteran, Ashley and his family lived in the wooden keeper’s dwelling attached to the tower.
  • John F. Sullivan (1873–1880)
    • Took over in the 1870s.
    • Records show Sullivan as a dedicated keeper who maintained the light during heavy shipping traffic years.
  • Charles H. Anderson (1880–1884)
    • Oversaw the station during a quieter period, as shipping began to shift more to the West Channel.
  • John McDonald (1884–1913)
    • The last and longest-serving keeper.
    • He tended the light until it was deactivated in 1913.
    • After his tenure, the building was abandoned, leading to its decades of decline.

Location

Located on the southeast shore of Grand Island, north of Munising.
Latitude: 46.45667, Longitude: -86.6232

​​Google Maps HERE

History

  • Built in 1868, the Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse was constructed to guide vessels through the eastern channel between Grand Island and Munising Bay.
  • At the time, Munising was a growing port for lumber and iron ore shipments, and the east channel was a key route for schooners and steamships.
  • The lighthouse was made primarily of wood, unlike many stone or brick Great Lakes lighthouses. Its rustic appearance with weathered siding gives it the "storybook" look it’s famous for today.
  • By the early 1900s, shipping traffic shifted to the west channel of Grand Island, which was wider and safer for larger vessels.  In 1913, the light was officially deactivated.
  • Without a purpose, the wooden structure fell into disrepair, battered by Superior’s harsh weather.
  • The lighthouse is now privately owned but remains one of the most beloved landmarks of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
  • It is not open to the public due to safety and preservation concerns, but it can be viewed by boat tours from Munising, including the famous Pictured Rocks Cruises.
  • The lighthouse became iconic partly because of its storybook look. Photographers say that in the right light, it feels “haunted but alive.”

Photography

  • Its rustic, weather-beaten appearance has made it one of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S., often appearing in calendars, books, and artwork.
  • ​There are no trails leading directly to it, and the surrounding terrain is rough and unstable.
  • The lighthouse faces east and is best photographed before noon.
  • Boat tours – Pictured Rocks Cruises and Riptide Ride both pass close by.
  • Kayak tours – Many local outfitters offer guided trips past the lighthouse (best in calm weather).
  • Winter – When Munising Bay freezes solid (and conditions are safe), some locals ski or snowshoe across the ice for a distant view—but this is risky and not recommended unless you’re very experienced with Lake Superior ice conditions.
  • A photo of the Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse has appeared on U.S. postage stamps, calendars, and countless paintings—making it one of the most reproduced lighthouse images in America.