Information on Traverse City, Michigan and the surrounding Northwest Michigan area

Old Mission Lighthouse

Way out at the tip of Old Mission Peninsula, about 20 miles from downtown Traverse City, is Old Mission Lighthouse Park, which sits on the 45th parallel, halfway between the North Pole and the equator. Although the lighthouse itself is not open to the public (it is currently a private residence), the park has a huge beach area with shallow water great for wading.

Several beaches, picnic areas and trails are accessible along the last stretch of M-37 before it ends at the park, and even on crowded summer days, a short walk from the main beach will take you to nearly empty wooded paths and beaches.

One must-see attraction is the Hessler Log Cabin, which is located near the lighthouse. The log cabin, originally built in the 1850s, has been preserved and restored.

Just getting to the park can be a trip, too. Take either Peninsula Drive or East Shore Boulevard from Traverse City. Both roads run along the water as you make your way up the peninsula.