Big Red Lighthouse

For a great view of Big Red, visit Holland State Park, and walk along the boardwalk to the north pier (wheelchair accessible). You can also view Big Red from Mt. Pisgah, where the dune stair case takes you 157 feet above sea level. Holland State Park is at the west end of Ottawa Beach Road on the northside of Holland; Mt. Pisgah is just east, near Third Ave. This three-story building- topped with a gray-shingled roof and square tower is one of the most photographed lights in Michigan. The twin-gabled structure reflects the Dutch influence in the area. Twice a year, the Coast Guard inspects the facility and maintains the light. The light can be seen for 20 miles. The use of a fog signal had been discontinued. The original lens is on display in the Holland Museum. Over the years, "Big Red" has taken on a life of its own, popular with painters, photographers, beach-goers and boaters. There's nothing more relaxing than sitting in the shade of a tree, and watching the river empty into Lake Michigan, while the red sentinel stands guard across the channel.