Breathtaking Michigan Shipwreck That You Can Easily Walk To Along Lake Huron's Shoreline


Michigan Shipwreck | By Sherry Trautman 

Wouldn't you be super excited to see a real shipwreck that you can easily walk to? One that you can actually see from the safety of the shore?

Isn't it frustrating that you can rarely see a Michigan shipwreck unless you are an expert swimmer or scuba diver? 

Or that you need to bring a kayak or pay someone to take you out on their boat to see one or two depending on the weather? 

Well, my friends, we were simply GIDDY to discover this one RIGHT FROM THE BEACH!  You can even touch it!!  


"Adventure is Life!"- Sherry & Chris 

40 Mile Point Lighthouse and Joseph S. Fay Shipwreck


7323 US 23N, Lighthouse Park, Rogers City, MI

The 40 Mile Point Lighthouse is a wonderful place to visit.  Plan to spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours here so you can explore the walking trails, beach and lighthouse. 



What an incredible view!!  You will want to spend quite a while reading about the area from the information boards at the lighthouse and learning more about the shipwreck!

Oh, and it's free to see the Joseph S. Fay shipwreck!!



Which Shipwreck Is It?

The plaque above reads, "During a fierce storm on October 19, 1905, Lake Huron battered and eventually sank the 216 foot steamer Joseph S. Fay just offshore from this spot.

Lake Huron claimed one crew member when a huge wave swept him overboard.  The rest of the crew managed to scramble into a life raft and eventually made it safely to shore after a traumatic night at sea.

The violent storm claimed a dozen ships in nearby waters that night. No match for the power of the wind, waves and ice of Lake Huron, the Fay's wooden hull has been torn apart and massive sections are scattered around the area.

The main wreckage rests approximately 300 yards offshore in 19 feet of water. The clear water of Lake Huron gives divers, snorkelers and paddlers the opportunity to explore this main section of wreckage and the cargo of iron ore that went down with the Fay.

Without getting wet, visitors can explore part of the Fay. The starboard side of the steamer's hull lies on the beach, a short walk to the left. Local students often visit the archaeological site for hands-on lessons in Great Lakes history."


Where Is This Accessible Michigan Shipwreck?


This shipwreck is accessible along Lake Huron's Shoreline!  Simply park in the paved lot at the 40 Mile Point Lighthouse west of Rogers City. See the map above.



Walk west along the wood chip and dirt trail (shown above) that leads into the woods in front of the lighthouse. You will need to climb up a slightly steep hill of sand to reach the beach and the shipwreck.  


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Sherry Trautman Bio Picture

About the Lead Author | Sherry Trautman

Thanks for stopping by!

Our Words of Wisdom: “Never follow anyone else’s path. Unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path, then by all means follow that path.”

"Sherry & Chris"

We're Sherry and Chris the founders of one of Michigan's most comprehensive and Top Travel Blogs!

    Sherry Trautman is a seasoned business owner and a multifaceted content creator, deeply entrenched in the world of travel in Michigan. With her extensive background in writing, editing, photography, marketing, website design, web mastering, social media, and publishing, she is the driving force behind the acclaimed Michigan Travel site "Travel-mi.com." A lifelong Michigander, Sherry's journey began in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan led her to St. Joseph during her formative years, and further to Kalamazoo for her higher education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design and Fine Art from Western Michigan University. Her career initially blossomed in Battle Creek, where she contributed significantly to aviation, marketing, and the art industry.

    In 2018, Sherry, alongside her husband Chris, embarked on a passionate endeavor with the inception of Travel-MI.com. This venture was not just a business but a full-time commitment to exploring and celebrating the diverse landscapes and communities of Michigan. Together, they tirelessly traverse the state, curating unique experiences, capturing stunning visuals, and weaving engaging narratives that showcase Michigan's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. From her early experiences in different Michigander locales to her extensive professional background, Sherry's life and work epitomize a deep-rooted expertise in Michigan travel, making her an authoritative voice in this niche.

Sherry & Chris are at the Inn at Bay Harbor and looking out at the lake.
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