A beautiful nineteen-mile drive up the Old Mission Peninsula, through cherry orchards and vineyards, is Mission Point Lighthouse. It was in use from 1870-1933, and now is open to tourists who come to climb to its top and look out at Lake Michigan and its shores. The lighthouse has a small gift shop, and is surrounded by miles of trails that run through the park.

On the same property can be found the Hessler Log Cabin, home of Joseph and Mary Hessler, who built the cabin in 1854. The pioneering Hesslers crafted their cabin out of white pine and hemlock trees, and cleared sixteen acres of land to grow corn and wheat. Every third Sunday of the month the cabin is open for visitors, who will be greeted by home-cooked goodies made over the Hessler’s stove.

Address: Mission Point Lighthouse, 20500 Center Road, Traverse City, MI 49686, Phone: 231-645-0759

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