Experience the Magic of Ice-Encased Lighthouses

When the St. Joseph North and South Pier lights become encased in ice, the scene is striking enough to draw visitors and content creators from across the state and beyond. Strong winds, crashing waves and long cold snaps can sculpt layers and ribbons of ice and icicles on the towers and catwalk, creating dramatic forms that often appear in regional and even national news. The ice never lasts long, but seeing it in person is something people remember for years.

What conditions encase the lights in ice?

Ice-coated lighthouses do not appear every winter. The weather and lake conditions must align and this most often happens sometime between December and February.

First, temperatures must drop and stay well below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The colder it gets, the faster ice can build. Second, the wind must be strong and blowing from the southwest, west or northwest to create the most dramatic effect. Third, the water around the lighthouses must remain unfrozen so wind can drive waves high enough to crash against the pier and structures.

When everything lines up, waves can reach 20 feet or higher. Spray from waves breaking against the pier and lighthouses can rise more than 80 feet in the air. During the course of a day, the structures can accumulate a significant amount of ice.

How can I find out if there is ice?

Checking weather and wind forecasts for ideal temperatures and wind speeds can help you gauge whether conditions are suitable for ice formation, especially if you want to arrive as soon as it ices up. If you want to be sure before you visit, use the live beach cam to see the current conditions from the vantage point of Silver Beach. Note that the camera switches between views of the beach and the piers. Also, follow Visit Southwest Michigan on Facebook or Instagram for timely updates. 

How long does the ice last?

It depends entirely on the weather. A warm spell can quickly weaken the ice, sometimes melting it within a day or two. If the cold holds, the formations can last for weeks and may even build new layers as waves and spray freeze again, changing the look of the lights each time.

Where can I get the best view?

Silver Beach County Park is the best place to view the South Pier beacon when it ices over, offering a safe vantage point to see the formations. For the North Pier’s inner and outer lighthouses and the catwalk, Tiscornia Park is the recommended location. You can also see both piers from a bit farther away along the bluff in downtown St. Joseph, where you get a wide, elevated view of the lake.

Is there parking near the frozen lighthouses?

Yes, parking is available near Silver Beach County Park and Tiscornia Park. For the closest access to the lighthouses, park at Tiscornia Park. However, during winter, some lots may be partially covered in snow or icy conditions, so plan accordingly.

Is it safe to walk on the piers in the winter?

Winter conditions make the piers very slippery and a fall into the cold, open water can be dangerous and potentially deadly. Ice buildup also creates large icicles that can break off without warning. Crashing waves can wash over the pier and the spray may carry chunks of ice. Although some people venture out, the safest way to enjoy the frozen lighthouses is from shore, where you can take in the views without the risks that come with icy surfaces and shifting lake conditions.

Does the ice damage the lighthouses?

While the thick ice formations look beautiful, they can cause structural stress over time. The weight and expansion of ice can put pressure on metal components, requiring regular maintenance and preservation efforts to ensure the lighthouses remain intact for you and future generations.

How can I capture great photos or videos of the ice?

A telephoto lens is one of the best tools for photographing the frozen lighthouses because it lets you capture close-up shots while staying safely on shore. Mobile device users can improve zoom quality with clip-on telephoto lenses and drones can provide closer perspectives while you remain on land. If you do not have a drone or telephoto lens, the dramatic ice along the shoreline makes excellent foreground elements for wide-angle compositions. Whatever you use, keep batteries warm, clean your lens often and stay aware of blowing freezing spray. 

Timing tips: Golden hour can add depth and contrast to the ice. The lighthouses also operate year-round, creating striking visuals when their lights shine through layers of ice during blue hour.

Morning golden hour begins at sunrise and lasts 45 to 60 minutes. The evening golden hour starts 45 to 60 minutes before sunset. Morning blue hour occurs 30 to 45 minutes before sunrise, while evening blue hour begins after sunset and lasts about 30 to 45 minutes.

Discover More Winter Wonders

Plan Your Visit

Make the most of your winter lighthouse trip by booking a hotel near the lakeshore so you are close to restaurants, shops and local events. After your time outside, warm up with coffee, tea or a drink, then explore the area's dining options. If you enjoy tasting local craft beverages, follow the Makers Trail to visit breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries throughout the region. 

Even if Lake Michigan doesn’t turn the lighthouses into picturesque ice sculptures, the views are mesmerizing. Come see nature’s artistry this winter.