Manistee North Pier Head Lighthouse

Dating to 1869, Manistee's Historic North Pier and Catwalk is listed on the State Register of Historic Sites and is one of only four remaining catwalks on the West Michigan coast of Lake Michigan. Located at Fifth Avenue Beach in the City of Manistee, it is one of the most photographed and painted sites in Michigan.

The first lighthouse, at the mouth of the Manistee River, was destroyed by fire in 1871, just one year after being built. The current 39-foot tower was constructed in 1927.

The Old Manistee Main light was established in 1869 and has been moved many times since it was deactivated in 1927. The roof-mounted lantern and cupola were removed years ago. After serving as a rental property for many years, it is now a private residence and is located three blocks from the Fifth Avenue Beach.

The catwalk was repaired in the early 1990's by a local drive to "Save the Catwalk" - spearheaded by the local Chamber of Commerce. Clocks were constructed with the wood from the old catwalk and offered for sale in local shops. The U.S. Coast Guard Station at Manistee, located near the North Pier, Fifth Avenue Beach and on the Manistee River Channel, will be expanded in 2001, with a new 47 foot life saving boat and additional personnel. The foghorn was reactivated in 1998.

Manistee Chamber: 800-228-2286
Manistee Area CVB: 877-626-4783
West Michigan Tourist Association: 800-442-2084
Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association: 313-436-9150