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Wolf Trap Lighthouse

Fl W 15s🇺🇸Virginia, USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Wolf Trap Lighthouse

Constructed in 1821, Wolf Trap Light is a caisson lighthouse situated in the Chesapeake Bay, off the coast of Virginia. It stands approximately 16 meters above sea level. The light emits a single white flash. This structure was established as part of efforts to improve maritime navigation within the bay. The lighthouse continues to operate, serving vessels in the region.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Background
Wolf Trap Light is a caisson lighthouse in the Virginia portion of the Chesapeake Bay, about seven and a half miles northeast of New Point Comfort Light. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl W 15s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
15s
Focal Height
16m

Location

City
Virginia
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
37.3833°
Longitude
-76.1833°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Construction & History

Year Built
1821
Heritage Status
National Register of Historic Places listed place

References & Identifiers

Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Wikidata
Q8029912 →
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Wolf Trap Lighthouse at night?+
Wolf Trap displays the characteristic Fl W 15s — 1 white flash every 15 seconds. 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.
Which ports and harbors does Wolf Trap Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Wolf Trap Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is New Point at 5.2 NM to the WSW. Other ports served include MATHEWS (7.7 NM NW), KINGS CREEK (10.3 NM SE), MOBJACK BAY (10.7 NM WNW), Cape Charles (10.8 NM SE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Wolf Trap Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Wolf Trap 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.
What shipping routes pass near Wolf Trap Lighthouse?+
Wolf Trap Lighthouse is located within the US East Coast shipping lane — a major shipping corridor serving ports along the Atlantic seaboard of the United States. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near Wolf Trap Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Wolf Trap 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.