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Saginaw Approach Range Front Lighthouse

F Red🇺🇸USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Saginaw Approach Range Front Lighthouse

This cylindrical range front light stands 20 meters tall, with a focal height of 20 meters, guiding vessels on their final approach to the Saginaw River. Its square skeletal tower is mounted on a round pier. The light emits a continuous red signal, visible for 13.2 nautical miles. The U.S. Coast Guard maintains this active aid, which is located just off the river mouth on the west side of the channel. While the site is open to visitors who can reach it by boat, the tower itself is closed to the public.

Why it matters: This range light is indispensable for safe navigation into the Saginaw River, specifically guiding vessels through the final segment of their approach.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
F Red
Flash Type
Fixed
Light Color
Red
Raw Code
F R
Focal Height
20m
Geographic Range
13.2NM

Location

Country
🇺🇸United States
Region
Michigan
Sea Region
Located just off the mouth of the Saginaw River, on the west side of the channel, guiding vessels on their final approach to the river.
Latitude
43.6485°
Longitude
-83.8516°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Bay City(0.4 km)
USCG No.
7-10550

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
20m
Tower Shape
cylindrical

Structure: square skeletal tower mounted on a round pier

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Saginaw Approach Range Front Lighthouse at night?+
Saginaw Approach Range Front displays the characteristic F Red. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area. The red color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Saginaw Approach Range Front Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Saginaw Approach Range Front Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is BAY CITY at 0.4 NM to the S. Other ports served include Kawkawlin (3.6 NM W), LINWOOD BEACH (6.7 NM NW), Saginaw (11 NM SSW), SUNSET BAY (11.8 NM E). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Saginaw Approach Range Front Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Saginaw Approach Range Front Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
How can I track vessels near Saginaw Approach Range Front Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Saginaw Approach Range Front Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.