Lake Superior: A First Time Visitor Guide
Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface are and on top of that is a breathtaking destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs. This lake stretches across the borders of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ontario, Canada and all throughout offers stunning shorelines, pristine forests, vibrant small towns, and unique cultural experiences. If you’re visiting Lake Superior for the first time, this guide will help you navigate its vast beauty and plan an unforgettable trip! I’ve personally explored at least half of it throughout my journies and will share some of my top recommendations for what to check out as well!
Basic info:
- Name: Lake Superior
- Location: The Upper Peninsula and Ontario Canada
- Things to do: Hiking, driving, boating and more. See top recommendations
- Hotel options: See top choices
Understanding Lake Superior’s Scope:
Lake Superior is massive, with a shoreline spanning 2,726 miles across four regions. Known for its crystal-clear waters, rugged coastlines, and unspoiled wilderness, it’s often referred to as an “inland sea.” Its size influences its weather, with cooler summers and harsher winters compared to inland areas. Its beauty, history, and recreational opportunities draw visitors year-round.
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Getting There:
Lake Superior is accessible from several regional airports and major highways, depending on where you plan to explore. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Duluth, Minnesota: A gateway city on the western shore, easily accessible via Duluth International Airport (DLH) or I-35.
- Thunder Bay, Ontario: Accessible via Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT), a great base for exploring the Canadian shore
- Marquette, Michigan: Located in the Upper Peninsula (UP), it’s served by Sawyer International Airport (MQT) and offers access to Michigan’s scenic shoreline
- Driving: Many visitors drive to Lake Superior, following routes like the Lake Superior Circle Tour, a 1,300-mile scenic drive that loops the entire lake.
Must See Destinations:
Each region of Lake Superior has its own unique attractions. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular spots to check out:
- Split Rock Lighthouse State Park: A historic lighthouse perched on a rocky cliff with sweeping views of the lake. Trails in the area are perfect for hiking.
- Gooseberry Falls State Park: Known for its cascading waterfalls and easy-to-navigate trails.
- Grand Marais: A charming town on the North Shore with art galleries, local shops, and access to the Gunflint Trail, a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Wisconsin - Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Near Bayfield, this collection of 21 islands features sea caves, historic lighthouses, and opportunities for kayaking and hiking. Winter visitors can explore the famous ice caves if conditions allow.
- Bayfield: The jumping-off point for exploring the Apostle Islands and offers quaint shops and waterfront dining.
Michigan (Upper Peninsula) - Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Known for its colorful sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Boat tours and kayaking offer unique perspectives of the cliffs.
- Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Home to Michigan’s largest waterfall, this park is perfect for hiking, fishing, and photography.
- Marquette: The largest city in the UP, Marquette offers museums, beaches, and access to trails like the Iron Ore Heritage Trail.
Ontario - Sleeping Giant Provincial Park: Near Thunder Bay, this park is named for the rock formation resembling a giant lying on its back. It offers excellent hiking and stunning views of the lake.
- Terrace Bay and Aguasabon Falls: A beautiful spot to experience Ontario’s rugged coastline and scenic waterfalls.
Outdoor Activities Around Lake Superior:
Lake Superior is a hub for outdoor recreation, with activities for all skill levels and interests.
Hiking: Because of it’s size and many locations to explore around it, there’s really 100s of potential trails to choose from, but here are the most popular:
- The Superior Hiking Trail in Minnesota is a favorite, stretching 310 miles along the North Shore with shorter sections for day hikes.
- In Michigan, the North Country Trail runs through Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and connects with other trails.
- Canada’s Coastal Trail in Lake Superior Provincial Park provides a challenging but rewarding hiking experience.
Kayaking and Canoeing: This is one of the most fun activities to explore all throughout Lake Superior. There are many rental areas to choose from and here is a small sample of the most popular locations to check out by boat:
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- Paddle along the shores of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore or explore the sea caves.
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Sleeping Giant also offer excellent opportunities for paddling enthusiasts.
Fishing: Lake Superior is known for its trout and salmon fishing. Charters are available in towns like Marquette and Duluth for a guided experience.
Wildlife Viewing: The lake and its surrounding forests are home to black bears, moose, bald eagles, and even the occasional wolf.
Winter Activities: In the colder months, explore Apostle Islands’ ice caves, snowshoe through trails in Michigan’s UP, or try cross-country skiing in Minnesota’s state parks.
Cultural and Historical Attractions:
Lake Superior isn’t just about nature—there’s also rich history and culture to discover.
- Maritime Museums: Visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point, Michigan, to learn about the lake’s maritime history and infamous shipwrecks, including the Edmund Fitzgerald.
- The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center in Duluth offers insights into the region’s shipping industry and history.
- Lighthouses: Explore historic lighthouses like Split Rock Lighthouse in Minnesota, Big Bay Point Lighthouse in Michigan, and several on the Apostle Islands in Wisconsin.
- Indigenous Culture: Lake Superior is part of the traditional lands of the Ojibwe people. Visitors can learn about their culture and history through local museums, cultural centers, and guided tours.
Best Times to Visit:
- Spring (April to June): Spring is great for waterfalls, as snowmelt swells rivers and creates dramatic cascades. Wildflowers bloom along hiking trails, and the crowds are thinner than in summer.
- Summer (July to August): Summer is the most popular time to visit, with warmer weather perfect for hiking, kayaking, and beach days. Expect more visitors, especially at major attractions.
- Fall (September to October): Autumn brings spectacular fall foliage, making it one of the best times for scenic drives and hikes. Cooler weather is also ideal for outdoor activities.
- Winter (November to March): While winter is the least popular season for visitors, it offers unique experiences like ice caves, snowshoeing, and the serene beauty of snow-covered landscapes.
Where to Stay Around Lake Superior:
Lake Superior offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy cabins. Here is a list of the most popular towns and cities around it, with the top hotel options:
- Duluth, Minnesota: Hotels like Pier B Resort and Fitger’s Inn provide comfortable stays with lakefront views.
- Bayfield, Wisconsin: Stay in charming inns or bed-and-breakfasts, such as the Old Rittenhouse Inn.
- Marquette, Michigan: Choose from hotels like Landmark Inn or vacation rentals near the beach.
- Ontario: In Thunder Bay, options range from chain hotels to cabins near Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
For a more rustic experience, consider camping in state parks like Gooseberry Falls or Tahquamenon Falls, or at campgrounds in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
Northern Lights:
Lake Superior is also a prime destination for witnessing the Northern Lights, thanks to its northern latitude, dark skies, and low light pollution. The best time to see the auroras is between September and March, with clear skies and minimal moonlight offering the best conditions. Top viewing spots include:
- Grand Marais and Grand Portage State Park in Minnesota
- Apostle Islands in Wisconsin
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan
- Sleeping Giant Provincial Park in Ontario
- Isle Royale National Park
For the best experience, check aurora forecasts (Kp Index 4+), dress warmly, and bring a tripod for photography. Even if the auroras don’t appear, Lake Superior’s starry skies and tranquil landscapes make for an unforgettable experience.
Final Things to Know:
Lake Superior is a destination like no other, offering unparalleled natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re hiking along its rugged shores, exploring historic lighthouses, or simply soaking in the views of its vast waters, a visit to Lake Superior is sure to leave you inspired. With so much to see and do, your first trip to this Great Lake will undoubtedly be the start of many more adventures.
