A list of the best lighthouses in Door County for a scenic day trip!
I had many epic travel adventures, from hiking scenic trails to visiting cultural sites, but not until I climbed the best lighthouses in Door County, Wisconsin.
Not just built for breathtaking vistas, lighthouses have become symbols of strength and protection for over 300 miles of shoreline in Door County.
Among the many things to do in Door County, they took me back to the glorious past that once guided seafarers to safe passage across the craggy coastlines.
I am ready to unravel the mystery of these iconic Wisconsin landmarks as I share my top picks from my majestic journey in Door County!
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Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough Door County posts? Have a look at my other posts:
- Wineries in Door County, Wisconsin
- Things to do in Door County in July
- Resorts in Door County on the Water
Table of Contents
1. Cana Island Lighthouse
Location: North of Baileys Harbor
One of the best lighthouses in Door County, Cana Island Lighthouse has stood the test of time for over 200 years. It was built in 1869 along the peninsula’s shores.
The lighthouse is accessible by a haywagon ride through a beautiful stone causeway.
Inside, I climbed 97 steps up the twisting staircase to the gallery deck, and on the outside deck, I witnessed the breathtaking view of Lake Michigan.
It is open from 10 am to 5 pm from May to October, seven days a week. For more information, visit the hours and admission page.
From the lighthouse, I headed to the nearby wooded The Ridges Sanctuary hiking trail. Along the way, I checked out some restaurants, such as Chives and Coyote Roadhouse.
2. Eagle Bluff Lighthouse
Location: Peninsula State Park Fish Creek
Perched above Green Bay, the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse overlooks the vast Strawberry Channel. It was one of the oldest Door County lighthouses discovered after the Civil War in the 1860s.
On the inside, I found a spiral cast-iron staircase connecting the keeper’s residence and light tower. The historical society plans to restore the barn and summer kitchen that used to be on the property.
To access the lighthouse, I took the Trail Tramper’s Delight Trail toward the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. Hikers often take this hiking trail from Nicolet Bay.
Guided tours are available from 10 am to 3:30 pm. The places to eat nearby include Summer Kitchen and Barringer’s Restaurant.
3. Pottawatomie Lighthouse
Location: Rock Island State Park
Also known as Rock Island Light, the Pottawatomie Lighthouse is set on a high bluff along Wisconsin’s Great Lakes shorelines.
A lighthouse was already there when Wisconsin became a state, but it was replaced by the present lighthouse in 1858.
As one of the many iconic lighthouses of Door County Wisconsin, Pottawatomie was recognized by the National Register of Historic Place in 1979.
For such history, I found it an excellent opportunity to climb the lantern room, a highlight of Pottawatomie.
The best way to access the lighthouse is by taking the 5.75-mile Thordarson trail, which is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Memorial Day to Columbus Day.
If you’re craving a heavy meal on your way back, near the lighthouse, Fiddler’s Green offers delicious seafood and steaks.
4. Baileys Harbor Range Lights
Location: Bailey’s Harbor
Although not as tall as other best lighthouses in Door County, Baileys Harbor Range Lights are equally captivating. Built in 1869, it was included on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
This picturesque lighthouse has two lights. The upper light is on a tower, while the lower light, which is fully restored now, is on a shorter, less distant structure.
When both lights were still working and aligned, mariners knew they were following a safe passage.
I visited this place during winter, and the lighthouse was an exciting stop on my hike. It is also among the things to do in Door County in winter.
The Upper Range Light trail leads through a historic maritime forest.
Admission is free for members from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., except Wednesdays (11 a.m. to 2 p.m. only).
5. Sherwood Point Lighthouse
Location: Sturgeon Bay
Known for being the last manned Door County lighthouse on the Great Lakes, Sherwood Point Lighthouse has been an active navigational aid by the U.S. Coast Guard since 1883.
Currently, it is not open for public tours but offers free admission over the weekend.
The lighthouse is constructed with red brick instead of limestone, making it more special than other lighthouses in Wisconsin.
One of the many incredible things to do in Sturgeon Bay, dropping by this lighthouse through the diverse nature and beach trails will be one of your perfect hikes in Door County.
But for a unique perspective, I rented a boat to see the lighthouse above the water across Olde Stone Quarry Stone Park.
Take the Idlewild Road or Country Road M north for seven miles, then turn left to Sherwood Point Road. The lighthouse is located at the end of the road.
6. Sturgeon Bay Canal North Pierhead Light
Location: Sturgeon Bay
With a bright red structure, you won’t miss to see the Sturgeon Bay Canal North Pierhead Light. Established in 1882, the U.S. Coast Guard on Lake Michigan still operates this lighthouse in Sturgeon Bay.
When I visited the tower, entry was restricted, but visitors were allowed to explore the lower-level break wall.
I enjoyed the view of the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal, which connects Sturgeon Bay on Green Bay with Lake Michigan. This makes it one of the best lighthouses in Door County.
To reach the North Pierhead Light and Ship Canal, guests can park near the station’s gate and take the driveway leading to the seawall.
You can also hike through Whitefish Dunes, then end the day with a refreshing dip in one of the beaches in Door County along Lake Michigan.
7. Pilot Island Lighthouse
Location: Ellison Bay
Built with cream-colored brick, the Pilot Island Lighthouse evokes rustic charm.
It was originally built on Plum Island in 1848, but since it was too far to the west, President Buchanan decided to rebuild it on Pilot Island.
Currently, Pilot Island Lighthouse is closed to the public, so no direct tours are available. Luckily, I had a chance to charter a boat that sailed past the lighthouse, where I could take photos offshore.
The lighthouse is accessible via boat, and the best viewing spot from the land is at the Washington Island Ferry dock.
Meanwhile, you can explore nearby hiking trails, including the 14-mile Newport Loop on Ellison Bay.
8. Plum Island Range Lights
Location: Between Washington Island and the tip of the peninsula
Situated just one boat trip away from Pilot Island, Plum Island Range Lights has an active rear range light tower that is still fully functional today.
Likewise, this lighthouse is closed to the public, and tours are prohibited. However, it is open during the Annual Lighthouse Festival in June. Plum Island Range Lights is visible from the Washington Island Ferry.
Visitors may rent a boat and go past the lighthouse for viewing and photography making this one of the best lighthouses in Door County.
When I went there, the boat passed by Plum Island Range Lights and Pilot Island Lighthouse through the Death’s Door passage.
9. Algoma Pierhead Lighthouse
Location: Ahnapee River, Algoma
Famed for its distinctive red lighthouse, Algoma Pierhead Lighthouse was automated in 1973. It is operated on a volunteer basis with a diaphone fog signal through a remote control.
Originally, the steel tower came from Muskegon, Michigan, while the sand came from Green Island, and the rock came from Sturgeon Bay.
One of the lighthouse pioneers was General Douglas MacArthur.
Drive toward Fremont Street from Highway 42 in Algoma. Then, turn left to Lake Street, where you can park your vehicle. The lighthouse is visible by the pier’s edge across the Ahnapee River.
10. Chambers Island Lighthouse
Location: Chambers Island, WI
Situated on the secluded Chambers Island, this lighthouse was built in 1868 and was transformed into a forty-acre day park in 1976.
It was named after Talbot Chambers, a colonel who created a military post in Green Bay.
What used to be a navigational aid for sailors has now become a historic landmark and museum by lightkeepers Mary Ann and Joel Blahnik.
Explore the island and tour the lighthouse, which offers insights into the island’s history and natural beauty.
This lighthouse is only accessible by a 45-minute boat ride. For an added adventure, I’ve decided to traverse through several trails near Chambers Island that lead to the beach.
My final thoughts on the best lighthouses in Door County
A beacon of scenic islands, many of Door County’s lighthouses stand tall and have been recognized by the National Historic Registry.
These remote and rustic structures are worth a trip. Some allow you to climb to the top or simply admire the magnificent scenery from your boat’s viewpoint.
No matter how many lighthouses in Door County, each boasts unique qualities and provides a majestic gateway to the past.
From Cana Island’s beautiful stone causeway to the iconic red tower of Algoma Pierhead, prepare for an inspiring experience.
To learn more about these lovely lighthouses, check out Door County bike trails and Door County things to do in summer!
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
