Rehabilitation Work and Site Improvements Coming to Split Rock Lighthouse

TWO HARBORS, Minn. (April 18, 2025) – Restoration work is coming to Split Rock Lighthouse this spring, which will improve accessibility and provide visitors with an enhanced experience at the historic site.

The project includes improvements to existing pathways and restoring historic circulation patterns within the historic core. After restoration is completed, guests will have access to a better view of where the historic hoist and derrick system was located and learn how it brought materials up from the water in 1909 during construction of the site. This new extended platform will provide views of the lighthouse, coastline, and Lake Superior.

Construction at the historic site is scheduled to begin on May 5 and continue through late October. During the initial phase of construction, anticipated to run through May 21, admission will be free and guests will have access to the Visitor Center, gift shop, and exhibits. Historic buildings, including the lighthouse, will not be accessible during this initial phase. For the remainder of summer and fall, the site will be open during regular business hours and visitors will be able to access the lighthouse, fog signal building, and oil house.

Additional work will include replacing the ramp into the restored Keeper’s House with a permanent accessible sloped walkway.

During construction, programming is subject to change. Visitors are encouraged to check Split Rock Lighthouse’s website and social media channels for the most up to date information.

This project is a result of a multi-year effort that began in 2016 with the creation of a Cultural Landscape Report (CLR). The CLR guided recommendations for the preservation of the site that are consistent with the landscape’s significance, condition, and use. The Trails & Landscape project is a result of those recommendations. This project was made possible by the people of Minnesota through an appropriation made by the Minnesota Legislature and approved by the Governor.

Media can contact Nick Jungheim to coordinate a walkthrough of the site to view the construction work.

About the Minnesota Historical Society
The Minnesota Historical Society is a non-profit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves, and tells the story of Minnesota’s past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs, and book publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, MNHS preserves our past, shares our state’s stories, and connects people with history.