Pointe aux Barques, translating to “point of little boats” from French, is a historic area located at the northeastern tip of Michigan’s Thumb region. Established in 1847, the Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse is among Michigan’s oldest active lighthouses, guiding vessels along Lake Huron’s shores. The surrounding community, though small with a population of just 15 as of the 2020 census, boasts a rich maritime history and natural attractions like the unique Turnip Rock formation, accessible only by water.
The Pointe aux Barques Heritage Festival returns Saturday, Aug. 1, with lighthouse tower climbs, museum tours, maritime history programs, vendors, food and live music. The free event will also mark 60 years since the sinking of the Daniel J. Morrell.
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A Port Hope museum will dedicate “Catharine’s Guiding Light,” a new barn quilt honoring Catharine Shook, Michigan’s first woman lighthouse keeper. The public ceremony is set for July 18 at the Port Hope Lumberyard Museum, with the quilt later appearing at the Heritage Festival.
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In 1849, Catherine Shook was appointed the first woman lighthouse keeper in the State of Michigan. She ran the Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse until 1851.
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Home to the world’s largest man-made fresh water harbor, the port of Harbor Beach is an ideal stopping point for sailors making their way up the shore of Lake Huron.
Rent a kayak and see three shipwrecks in the harbor
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Michigan boasts 124 unique lighthouses, with several undergoing restoration. Noteworthy sites include the historic Port Austin Reef and Pointe Aux Barques lighthouses, drawing visitors interested in exploration, history, and stunning views along the Great Lakes.
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This early 1900s photo captures the rural railroad depot at Pointe Aux Barques, Michigan, taken by Louis James Pesha. The
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A couple takes a photo adventure of cross-country ski hike from Port Austin harbor to Turnip Rock at Pointe Aux Barques.
Taking a five-mile round trip winter trek to the formation is the only way to see Turnip Rock in the winter.
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One of the most amazing sites in the #Michigan Upper Thumb is Turnip Rock. It’s the #1 tourist attraction in the Upper Thumb. Here are the top tips on how to visit the site and things to know before you go. .
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