What makes lighthouse experiences memorable?
Light Keepers and their family had amazing experiences operating these lighthouses since 1873. The isolated volcanic Porphyry Island, pummelled by Lake Superior in view of the Sleeping Giant, echo’s of yesteryear’s coureur de bois, mineral hounds, fisherman and lumber barons. Most are gone now, but the lighthouse and its stories provide adventures that celebrate their history today.
Volunteers preserve local history.
Visitors the lighthouses as a tourist, a volunteer for the day or as a student. There’s lots to learn especially from our extensive interpretive displays and tours.
Jump aboard the Superior Rocket
Adventure Lighthouse Tour: Tour historic Porphyry Island Lighthouse and experience firsthand the life and adventure of a Lake Superior light keepers. Climb aboard a charter (Sail Superior) and travel across the bay to this unique place. Ascend the light tower for a breath-taking view as part of your guided tour and enjoy a delicious locally sourced picnic lunch and short walk to a scenic view. Experience our guided tour and see the Gordon Graham Gallery. For the 2019 season please Book Here.
The Sleeping Giant seen from across Black Bay.
Become a Host Keeper Program: Hop on our lighthouse supply charter and be a keeper of the light for a one-week term at Porphyry Island Lighthouse. Spend time at this exciting destination and experience the life of a light keeper. Volunteers meet visitors daily, provide tours, do daily chores and help visitors navigate the lighthouse site. Keepers receive room & board plus transportation to and from the Island to Thunder Bay. During down time explore the Island, swim, snorkel, hike to the Black Sands Beach or take in the constellation-filled nights.
Volunteer for a day, a week: Work with others, develop skills, and build your network. Why not join the team and contribute to improve our lighthouses and make the site more welcoming for the upcoming season? Enjoy the camaraderie as we work to make our lighthouse destinations places everyone can visit and enjoy. Join us in early June 1, 2019 for our annual Porphyry Island Clean-up and two weeks later on June 15, 2019 at Trowbridge Island Lighthouse. Transportation of volunteers will require that you are a member of the organization. We are also looking for BINGO volunteers –
Explore our Guest House Rental: Living in the light keeper’s dwelling connects you to the amazing history of Porphyry Point Lighthouse. Located on Porphyry Island, 40 km east of Thunder Bay, this homestead offers a unique perspective of the life of a light keeper and his family. With running water, hydro and a propane stove, this rustic dwelling has what you need to further explore this unique destination. The three-bedroom dwelling has a working kitchen, with an ice box and can accommodate 6. Step outside and go for a hike, play on the front lawn or venture along the shoreline. Stay for one night or several. Includes our mini museum, Gordon Graham Art Gallery, tower climb, nature walks, sandy beach and guided tours. For the 2019 Season, please contact us here with your groups numbers and interests.
Join and become a Member: As a member of the Canadian Lighthouses of Lake Superior Inc. (CLLS) you will actively support the preservation of Canada’s Lighthouse heritage, stories and buildings. A membership purchase assists with CLLS’s ability to build and share the story of lighthouses on Lake Superior. Membership includes event invitations, a quarterly newsletter, volunteer opportunities and more. To sign up visit our membership page.