Ridge Rider Trail System | Jonesboro

Information

Landmark: Ridge Rider Trail System
City: Jonesboro
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America

Ridge Rider Trail System, Jonesboro, USA Arkansas, North America

The Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse is a historic navigational aid located at Fort Point in New Hampshire, USA.

Visual Characteristics

Constructed primarily of brick, the lighthouse stands approximately 48 feet tall. Its exterior is painted white, with a black lantern room at the apex. The structure features a conical shape, tapering towards the top.

Location & Access Logistics

The lighthouse is situated at the mouth of the Piscataqua River, adjacent to Fort Constitution. Access is via Fort Point Road from downtown Portsmouth. The distance from the city center is approximately 3 miles. Parking is available at the Fort Constitution State Historic Site. Public transport options are limited; the closest bus route stops several miles away.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The current lighthouse structure was built in 1878, replacing an earlier tower dating from 1771. It was constructed by the U.S. Lighthouse Board. Its original purpose was to guide maritime traffic into Portsmouth Harbor.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the exterior of the lighthouse. The grounds surrounding the lighthouse offer views of the harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. Guided tours of the interior are sometimes available, typically on specific dates announced by the U.S. Lighthouse Society.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the adjacent Fort Constitution State Historic Site. Shade is limited in the immediate vicinity of the lighthouse. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable. No food vendors are located directly at the lighthouse; options are available in downtown Portsmouth.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the structure. The best months for visiting are typically May through October, offering milder weather conditions. No tide-specific access requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that the lighthouse was automated in 1960, ending the need for a resident keeper. Local lore sometimes mentions phantom ship sightings in the harbor, though these are unsubstantiated.