Au Sable Lightstation (Pictured Rocks NL)

North Country Trail from Hurricane River to the Lightstation

Trailhead Elevation: 626 ft.
Distance: 3.43 mi. (my Forerunner 235)
Elevation Gain: 51 ft. (my Forerunner 235)
Start Time: 12:47pm
End Time: 2:24pm

Trip Report:
When it comes to the nuts and bolts of this hike there isn't a lot to say. It is a straightforward easy hike to follow and to complete. It leaves either from the day-use area at Hurricane River or from the west end of the lower campground. It follows a double-track gravel road out to the edge of the Lightstation complex. Once at the Lightstation there are several buildings to walk around and beautiful fields of wildflowers. Since our hike was during the coronavirus pandemic the buildings were all closed and the usual tour not offered. At the west end of the Lightstation complex the North Country Trail continues eastward toward Grand Marais.

The "Graveyard Coast" signage about the shipwrecks

Along the coast at the Shipwreck signage beach access

We hiked on a beautiful day with temps in the 60s at start. We had just finished up lunch at the day use area trying to fight off mosquitos in the shade. We packed up our family and started off down the road. Quite frankly I hadn't realized it was all going to be doubletrack and had been expecting a simple dirt forest trail. Either way it was almost entirely flat with the most minimal of ups and downs along the road.

At about a mile in is some signage for the shipwrecks that have taken place off the coast of the Point. There is also a beach access here with some beautiful views along the coast.

The Au Sable lightstation

Views to the east from the Lightstation

Once at the Lightstation we were pleased to find a working drinking fountain and a port-o-potty that were available to take care of basic needs. We enjoyed the beautiful landscape and the flowers which were in abundance. Off to the east we could see the sandy cliffs of the Log Slide area.

Hurricane River outlet to Lake Superior. Our kids had bundles of
fun walking in the river and exploring the rocks

My little girl Anya ready to hike

Track:

I have a track and waypoints from the hike all contained in a KML file that you are welcome to download and use (at your own risk).  

My Tracks