McGulpin Point Lighthouse

Lighthouse on the Straits of Mackinac!

Emmet County owns the historic McGulpin Point Lighthouse, which protected shipping on the Straits of Mackinac against storms, fog and rocks between 1869 and 1906. It was purchased by the county in 2008, which reopened McGulpin to the public with a gala celebration on May 30, 2009.

The site is approximately 10 acres and is a half mile north of the Headlands. It includes 336 feet of shoreline on the Straits with a commanding view of the Mackinac Bridge. It was purchased for $710,000 from the Peppler family.

Launch Type: Carry-in Launching (Kayak), Highway Right Of Way

Beach Type: Gravel/Cobble

Beach Approach: Low Banks

Notes: Mcgulpin Point provides access to the Straits and Mackinac Bridge. Emmet County has renovated the McGulpin Point Lighthouse and provided access to the water. The launch site offers views of the Mackinac Bridge. Shoreline west of the site is county-owned; shoreline East is lined with Homes all the way to the bridge. Boulders on the shore and in the water make this site difficult to launch and land during windy days. Waters in the Straits are challenging with currents and waves.

Things To Do: Birding, Kayaking, Scenic Viewing

Open: Fall, Spring, Summer

500 Headlands Road, Mackinaw City, MI

GPS: 45.78698, -84.77308