Rock of Ages Lighthouse

Rock of Ages guards the formidable reef that it sits on.

© ROBERT SWANSON

Quick Facts

Designation:

National Register of Historic Places

OPEN TO PUBLIC:

No

Amenities

1 listed

Scenic View/Photo Spot

Just outside Washington Harbor stands the Rock of Ages Light, which began operation in 1908. The 117-foot white cylinder-shaped lighthouse is composed of steel, concrete, and brick, with a black base and lantern. To build this lighthouse on a 50-foot by 200-foot rocky outcrop was a tribute to the engineering of the time. In 1909, a Second Order Fresnel lens replaced the first, temporary Third Order fixed red light. Today, the unmanned lighthouse features a 300 mm Tideland Signal Acrylic Optic lens that runs on solar power. You can view the stunning old Second Order Fresnel lens at the Windigo Visitor Center.

Learn about the history of the Rock of Ages Lighthouse.

Explore the History & Culture of Isle Royale National Park.