Free Guided Climbs at the Au Sable Light StationSummer lighthouse climbs and tours at the Au Sable Light Station begin on June 7th, 2026 through October 17th, 2026.Join a ranger at 11:00 am, 11:30 am, 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:30 pm, and 4:00 pm for a guided climb up the Au Sable Light Station! Climbs are free, but spots on each tour are limited. Climbs are first-come, first served. Guided climbs include a brief overview of the history and purpose of the Au Sable Light Station, a walk through of the Assistant Keeper's Quarters, and a climb up the 98 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a view of Lake Superior and the Grand Sable Dunes. Securely-strapped shoes (no flip flops, slides, or bare feet) are required to climb the lighthouse.
Lighthouse climb rules ensure the safety of yourself and others while climbing and while at the top!
The use of adaptive equipment (crutches, canes, etc.) is permitted in the lighthouse buildings and tower. Service animals are permitted in the lighthouse building and tower.
Getting to the Au Sable Light StationTo visit the Au Sable Light Station, travel to the Hurricane River Campground located 12 miles west of Grand Marais on Alger County Road H-58. Park in the day-use parking area near the bridge. It is a 1.5 mile walk (one way) to the lighthouse. From the parking lot, walk east through the campground from the picnic area near the Hurricane River mouth. The trail continues past the campground on the historic U.S. Coast Guard access road to the light station. Be alert for occasional staff vehicle traffic. On the beach below the trail, exposed shipwreck remains dot the shoreline. Watch for the signs and steps to the beach along the access road. Pets are permitted on the access road to the light station and on the station grounds. Bicycles are not permitted on this road. Volunteering at the Au Sable Light StationEach summer, volunteers help make our tours and operations at the Au Sable Light Station possible. Volunteers donate a month of their time to living and working at the light station. Duties typically include assisting with guided tours and staffing the museum.Visit our volunteer page to learn more and view open opportunities. 
150 Years as a Beacon on the Shipwreck CoastClick here to learn more about the history of the Au Sable Light Station. |
Last updated: April 27, 2026