Today, the lighthouse is part of Tawas Point State Park, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources maintains responsibility for the lighthouse structure and grounds. Lighthouse tours are led during most summer weekends, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Special events, such as the Tawas Point Haunted Lighthouse weekend, also exist in October.
Hike Along the Point On the Sandy Hook Nature Trail
Sandy Hook Trail Map
Tawas Point has long been referred to as the Midwest’s Cape Cod. The changing sand has created a natural land hook that includes sandy beaches, wetlands, tiny dunes, and a variety of species. The Sandy Hook Trail stretches about 12 miles along Tawas Point, a two-mile land that separates Tawas Bay from Lake Huron. The trail is predominantly sand, with a few boardwalk sections to preserve eroding portions.
Tawas Point is home to red foxes, white-tailed deer, turtles, and snakes, among other animals. In addition, the route, which is designated as an important bird area, allows visitors to witness over 300 species of migrating birds in the spring and fall.
Weather At Tawas Point Lighthouse
The weather at Tawas Point Lighthouse, Michigan, often varies, reflecting the state’s typical climate. Summers are warm, with temperatures around 70°F, perfect for outdoor activities. Winters, however, are harsh, with temperatures dropping below 20°F and heavy snowfall. Spring and Fall are mild and wet, offering beautiful scenic views. The lighthouse experiences winds from Lake Huron, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers and windsurfers (“Tawas Point State Park,” n.d.).
Further Exploring Nearby Au Gres and Omer Michigan
Beyond the popular attractions of Au Gres, Michigan, one may find enjoyment in exploring its neighboring town, Omer. Known as Michigan’s smallest city, Omer offers a unique charm with its annual events like the Sucker Festival and Arenac County Fair. The Rifle River and the Au Gres River provide opportunities for fishing and water sports. Visitors can also enjoy hiking at the Au Gres City Park and camping at the Riverbend Campground. Both towns showcase Michigan’s natural beauty and small-town appeal (Michigan Economic Development Corporation, 2021).
Related Sites and Reading
10 Things To Do In Tawas Michigan – Fun Across the Bay – On summer evenings, we can see the blinking lights of the Tawas, Michigan, from our beach. It’s a day’s sail from Caseville but a several-hour drive from the Upper Thumb. The bay is clear due to the currents coming in from Lake Huron, and the little town nestled near the harbor is a charming mix of a tourist town and art colony.
A First and Exciting Saginaw Bay Sail – The morning air was hot, still and you could almost taste the humidity as we headed out on our first cruise with our 33-year-old Catalina 27. Our three boys and one of their friends slid between the stays to get to the bow to enjoy a bit of a breeze. It was a fine day and I was grinning from ear to ear as I looked back to see the Caseville harbor break wall slide in and out of the mist and into our first Saginaw Bay sail.
Turnip Rock – 7 Basic Things to Know When You Kayak – One of the most amazing sites in the Upper Thumb is Turnip Rock. Considered one of the ten most beautiful places in Michigan. Carved over time by the force of constant wave action, the soft limestone has been shaped to its namesake and separated from the mainland over thousands of years.
Lighthouses of Michigan’s Upper Thumb – There are 124 Michigan lighthouses across the state. They are unique, functional and draw many visitors to explore their grounds or climb the towers. Of the four lighthouses in the Upper Thumb, only one is accessible directly from the land. All the others need a boat to access.
Huron County Lighthouses Guard the Shore – These videos of the Huron County Lighthouses tour were stumbled upon a couple of years ago, and we were impressed with their high-quality production. However, I don’t think they were well promoted as they only have about 1,500 views.
Michael Hardy
Michael is the owner of Thumbwind Publications LLC. It started in 2009 as a fun-loving site covering Michigan's Upper Thumb. Since then, he has expanded sites and range of content and established a loyal base of 60,000 visitors per month.