Michigan Island
Dock and Lighthouse
This dock is exposed to the east and the vast open water of Lake Superior. Even a light east wind can create surge or waves, making it a poor choice in those conditions. However, it lies in the lee during west winds and can offer some protection. Much of the dock is silted in, so only the outer end is usable for most boats. That said, in the right conditions, it’s worth a stop—offering a view of the tallest lighthouse in the Apostle Islands.
The lighthouse is staffed by rangers less frequently than Raspberry Island, but in recent years, the property has seen significant improvements—and tours are becoming more regularly available. When I was 15, it was a different world. They used to leave it unlocked, and I’d steal my dad’s boat just to climb to the top of the lighthouse, alone on a quiet, empty island. Things have changed—but the magic of this place remains.
Gull Island
At the north end, there’s a small island that serves as a protected bird sanctuary and is strictly off-limits. For rental purposes, you must stay at least a mile away—though the legal buffer is 1,000 feet. Nesting birds call this rugged little island home, and its shoreline is covered in boulders, making it both hazardous and sensitive. Let’s respect the bird families and give them the space they need to raise their chicks in peace.
