Great Lakes | Your Ultimate Guide to Lake Superior

Lake Superior is our current love. We live about an hour northwest of Duluth, Minnesota, and head into town at least once a month for dinner or some shopping. As you drive in from neighboring Hermantown, the area is hilly. You can’t see anything until … suddenly … there she is, laid out before you in all her glory. The view makes me literally gasp every. single. time. My kids would make fun of me if they weren’t also mesmerized by Lake Superior’s vastness.

As the northernmost Great Lake (and coldest), Lake Superior doesn’t get the crowds that the other Great Lakes do, but it’s worth the drive. Honest!

Best Places to Visit on Lake Superior

Lake Superior is surrounded by a variety of charming towns and cities in Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Ontario, Canada. Here are some key towns and cities to consider visiting on Lake Superior:

Michigan:

1. Marquette, Michigan: This historic city offers a combination of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and a scenic shoreline, making it a hub for exploring Lake Superior’s beauty.
2. Copper Harbor, Michigan: Located at the northern tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, this town is known for its mining history, outdoor recreation, and access to Isle Royale National Park.
3. Munising, Michigan: This small town features an art community, beautiful beaches, and access to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Wisconsin:

1. Bayfield, Wisconsin: A charming town on the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, known for its orchards, maritime history, and the Madeline Island ferry.
2. Ashland, Wisconsin: Located on Chequamegon Bay, Ashland offers outdoor activities, parks, and cultural experiences, such as the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center.

Minnesota:

1. Duluth, Minnesota: As the largest city on Lake Superior, Duluth offers a vibrant and hip cultural scene, outdoor recreation, and stunning lakefront views.
2. Two Harbors, Minnesota: Known for its lighthouse, iron ore docks, and the starting point of the Superior Hiking Trail.
3. Grand Marais, Minnesota: A different Grand Marais from the town of the same name in Michigan, this Grand Marais offers an artistic community, restaurants, and access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Ontario, Canada:

1. Thunder Bay, Ontario: A larger city in the region, Thunder Bay offers a mix of urban and natural attractions, including Kakabeka Falls and Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
2. Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario: Known for the Sault Locks and the historic Canal District, this town has a rich history and is a gateway to Lake Superior’s Canadian shore. It’s joined by Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan on the other side of the border. And, in case you were questioning how to say this, it is pronounced: ‘Sue Saint Marie’ – you’re welcome. You can also just say “The Sue.”
3. Wawa, Ontario: Located on the Trans-Canada Highway, Wawa is known for its natural beauty, with picturesque landscapes and the iconic Canada Goose statue.

These towns and cities around Lake Superior offer a wide range of experiences, from outdoor adventures and scenic beauty to cultural attractions and history. Whether you’re interested in exploring the wilderness, taking in lakefront views, or learning about the area’s maritime heritage, there’s something for everyone along the shores of Lake Superior.

Best Beaches on Lake Superior

Lake Superior, with its rugged beauty and crystal-clear waters, offers some wonderful beaches for visitors to enjoy in Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Ontario. Here are some of the best beaches along Lake Superior:

Minnesota:

1. Park Point Beach (Duluth, MN): Located near Duluth, this long sandy beach on Park Point offers panoramic views of Lake Superior and the Duluth Harbor. It’s a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
2. Gooseberry Falls State Park Beach (Two Harbors, MN): This state park boasts stunning waterfalls and a beautiful cobblestone beach, perfect for taking in the natural beauty.

If you like pie …

Head north on MN-61 out of Two Harbors. Betty’s Pie is on your left and the Lake is on your right. The pies are iconic and a definate ‘must do’ for any trip to the North Shore. You can even have them put a slice of pie in your milkshake and blend it up!

While they have a sit-down restaurant, just head to the back and get in line for a slice to go! There are picnic tables or you can eat it in your RV.

Michigan:

1. Miners Beach (Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising, MI): Set against the backdrop of the colorful sandstone cliffs of Pictured Rocks, this beach offers pristine waters and impressive views.
2. Whitefish Point Beach (Paradise, MI): Located on the eastern tip of the Upper Peninsula, this beach provides a peaceful setting for enjoying Lake Superior and is near the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum.

Wisconsin:

1. Apostle Islands Mainland Sea Caves Beach (Bayfield, WI): Accessible by the Lakeshore Trail, this beach is located near the famous sea caves along the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
2. Big Bay Town Park Beach (La Pointe, WI): On Madeline Island, this sandy beach is ideal for swimming and enjoying the views of the Apostle Islands.

Ontario, Canada:

1. Old Woman Bay Beach (Wawa, Ontario): Nestled within Lake Superior Provincial Park, this beach offers a dramatic setting with steep cliffs, making it one of the most picturesque beaches in the region.
2. Agawa Bay Beach (Lake Superior Provincial Park, Ontario): Known for its red sand, this beach is an excellent place for sunbathing and swimming within the provincial park.

These beaches provide an opportunity to relax, swim, explore, and take in the natural beauty of Lake Superior’s shoreline. Be mindful of water conditions, as Lake Superior can have cold and unpredictable waters, so always follow posted safety guidelines and enjoy these beautiful locations responsibly.

Lake Superior Circle Tour

The Lake Superior Circle Tour is a scenic and popular driving route that encompasses the entire shoreline of Lake Superior. It provides travelers with a comprehensive way to explore the beauty and diversity of the Lake Superior region. Here are some key points about the Lake Superior Circle Tour:

1. Route: The tour follows a continuous loop around Lake Superior, connecting the U.S. states of Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, as well as the Canadian province of Ontario. Travelers can choose to start and finish the tour at any point along the route.
2. Distance: The entire tour covers approximately 1,300 to 1,600 miles (2,090 to 2,575 kilometers), depending on the specific route taken and any detours to explore specific areas of interest.
3. Scenic Beauty: The Lake Superior Circle Tour is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, waterfalls, forests, and more. It’s a nature lover’s paradise with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
4. Attractions: Along the route, you’ll encounter a wide range of attractions, including state and national parks, lighthouses, historical sites, charming towns and cities, and opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.
5. Diverse Experiences: The tour allows you to experience the unique cultures, history, and natural beauty of the Lake Superior region. You can explore Native American heritage, learn about the area’s mining history, and immerse yourself in the local art and culture.
6. Resources: Various resources, guidebooks, and maps are available to help travelers navigate the Lake Superior Circle Tour. Some states and provinces along the route offer official maps and information on their tourism websites.
7. Duration: The duration of the tour can vary widely, depending on how much time you want to spend at each stop and the specific route you choose. Some travelers complete the tour in several days, while others take weeks to fully explore the region. In my opinion, you could spend an entire summer leisurely doing the Lake Superior Circle Tour in your RV.

The Lake Superior Circle Tour is an incredible way to experience the beauty and diversity of Lake Superior and its surroundings. Whether you’re interested in a short road trip or an extended adventure, this route offers a unique opportunity to explore the shores of the world’s largest freshwater lake and enjoy a wide range of activities and attractions along the way.

Driving the entire circumference of Lake Superior is quite a feat, but don’t forget your passport. Half of Lake Superior’s vast shoreline is in Canada.

Campgrounds on Lake Superior

RV campgrounds along Lake Superior offer a variety of amenities and experiences for visitors looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. Here is a list of some private campgrounds on or near Lake Superior in Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Ontario:

Michigan:

1. Sunset Bay RV Resort and Campground (Allouez, MI): Located on the Keweenaw Peninsula, this campground offers lakefront sites and access to Lake Superior for swimming and boating.
2. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park Union Bay Campground (Ontonagon, MI): While part of a state park, Union Bay Campground offers modern amenities and a beautiful Lake Superior setting.
3. Twin Lakes State Park Campground (Toivola, MI): Situated on Lake Roland, which connects to Lake Superior, this state park campground provides camping near the lake.

Wisconsin:

1. Apostle Islands Area Campground (Bayfield, WI): Located near Bayfield and the Apostle Islands, this campground offers both tent and RV camping options.
2. Meyer’s Beach Campground (Cornucopia, WI): This campground is a convenient base for exploring the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and offers proximity to Lake Superior.

Minnesota:

1. Burlington Bay Campground (Two Harbors, MN): Set in Two Harbors, this campground offers lakefront sites along Agate Bay, providing easy access to Lake Superior and the town’s attractions.
2. Gooseberry Falls State Park Campground (Two Harbors, MN): Located near the Gooseberry River, this state park campground offers proximity to Lake Superior and the scenic Gooseberry Falls.

Ontario, Canada:

1. Agawa Bay Campground (Lake Superior Provincial Park, Ontario): This campground is situated within Lake Superior Provincial Park and offers various camping options near Lake Superior’s shoreline.
2. Pancake Bay Provincial Park Campground (Batchawana Bay, Ontario): Located on Pancake Bay, this provincial park campground features campsites near the lake and a sandy beach.

Please note that campground availability and amenities can change, so it’s a good idea to check with the specific campground you plan to visit for the most up-to-date information and to make reservations as needed.

State, National, and Provincial Parks Near Lake Superior

Lake Superior and its surrounding regions feature a variety of state, national, and provincial parks, as well as national forests for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Here is a list of everything near Lake Superior for your trip planning:

Michigan:

1. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park – Located in the Upper Peninsula, it’s Michigan’s largest state park and offers hiking, camping, and stunning wilderness views.
2. Tahquamenon Falls State Park – Home to the Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls (gorgeous!!), it’s a popular destination for hiking and exploring waterfalls.
3. Hiawatha National Forest – This national forest in the Upper Peninsula offers camping, hiking, and outdoor activities near Lake Superior.

Minnesota:

1. Gooseberry Falls State Park – Known for its cascading waterfalls and rocky shores, it’s a great place for hiking and picnicking.
2. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park – Offers breathtaking views and access to the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse on the North Shore. This is probably our favorite day trip in northern Minnesota <3
3. Jay Cooke State Park – Known for its swinging bridge and stunning river and forest scenery.
4. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore – A group of 21 islands on Lake Superior’s south shore, offering camping, hiking, and kayaking opportunities.
5. Superior National Forest – This extensive forest provides abundant opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, and outdoor recreation.
6. Judge C.R. Magney State Park – Home to the mysterious Devil’s Kettle, a disappearing waterfall and well worth the hike.

Wisconsin:

1. Copper Falls State Park – Known for its waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.
2. Pattison State Park – Home to Wisconsin’s highest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls.
3. Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest – Offers extensive outdoor recreational activities, including camping, hiking, and fishing.

Ontario, Canada:

1. Lake Superior Provincial Park – This provincial park offers hiking, camping, and stunning views of Lake Superior’s rugged coast.
2. Pancake Bay Provincial Park – Known for its sandy beaches and camping facilities.
3. Neys Provincial Park – Features a beautiful Lake Superior shoreline and sand dunes.
4. Sleeping Giant Provincial Park – Offers hiking trails, rugged terrain, and the iconic Sleeping Giant rock formation.

These parks and forests around Lake Superior provide a wealth of opportunities for outdoor exploration, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Be sure to check with each park or forest for information on seasonal activities, trail conditions, and camping reservations.

Did you know …

Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world. It’s bigger than the country of Ireland! That’s alotta water!

Things to See and Do Near Lake Superior

Lake Superior and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are the top 10 things to see and do on or near Lake Superior:

1. Apostle Islands Cruises (Bayfield, Wisconsin): Explore the rugged beauty of the Apostle Islands and their sea caves on a boat tour, or opt for kayaking to get up close to the stunning rock formations.
2. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (Munising, Michigan): Discover the colorful sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine beaches on a boat tour or hike the scenic trails in this national lakeshore.
3. Agate Hunting (Various Locations): Lake Superior is renowned for agate hunting. Search the pebble beaches along the shoreline for these beautiful semi-precious stones.
4. Hiking the North Shore (Minnesota): Hike sections of the Superior Hiking Trail, offering breathtaking views of the lake, waterfalls, and lush forests.
5. Lighthouse Tours (Various Locations): Visit historic lighthouses along the Lake Superior coast, such as Split Rock Lighthouse and Big Bay Point Lighthouse.
6. Amethyst Mining (Thunder Bay, Ontario): renowned for its amethyst deposits, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking the thrill of finding these sparkling gems. Visitors can explore the region’s amethyst mines and quarries, uncover their own treasures, and take home a piece of the stunning purple-hued amethyst as a unique souvenir of their trip.
7. Copper Harbor (Michigan): Visit this charming town on the Keweenaw Peninsula for outdoor adventures, lighthouse tours, and a ride on the scenic Copper Harbor Trails.
8. Tahquamenon Falls (Michigan): Witness the Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls, known as the “Root Beer Falls” due to their amber-colored waters.
9. Grand Marais Art Colony (Minnesota): Immerse yourself in the local art scene with workshops and exhibitions at this creative hub in the village of Grand Marais.
10. Wildlife Watching (Various Locations): Keep an eye out for wildlife like moose, black bears, bald eagles, and deer in the forests surrounding Lake Superior.

These activities represent just a fraction of the experiences you can enjoy on and around Lake Superior. Whether you’re interested in natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply relaxing by the lakeshore, Lake Superior has something to offer every type of traveler.

FAQs Lake Superior Travel

1. Where is Lake Superior located?

• Lake Superior is located in North America, bordered by the U.S. states of Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, as well as the Canadian province of Ontario.

2. What are the best times to visit Lake Superior?

• The summer months (June to August) are popular for outdoor activities and warm weather, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter is ideal for winter sports and ice formations.

3. What activities can I enjoy at Lake Superior?

• Lake Superior offers a range of activities, including swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, lighthouse tours, agate hunting, and wildlife watching.

4. Can I go agate hunting in the area?

• Absolutely. Lake Superior is famous for agate hunting. You can search for these semi-precious stones along its pebble beaches.

5. What is the best way to explore the Apostle Islands?

• The best way to explore the Apostle Islands is by taking a boat tour, kayaking, or hiking the trails on the islands.

6. What are some cultural attractions near Lake Superior?

• Lake Superior’s surrounding areas feature many art galleries, museums, and historic sites. Duluth, for example, has a vibrant arts and culture scene.

7. Are there wildlife viewing opportunities in the region?

• Yes, Lake Superior’s forests and shoreline provide excellent opportunities to spot wildlife like moose, black bears, eagles, and deer.

8. How can I find amethysts in Thunder Bay, Ontario?

• Amethyst mines and quarries in Thunder Bay offer tourists the chance to find amethysts; inquire about mine tours and digging opportunities.

9. Can I do winter sports in the Lake Superior region?

• Yes, Lake Superior is a great destination for winter sports, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, especially in the colder months. It’s especially beautiful in the winter.

Read More About the Great Lakes

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Great Lakes | Your Ultimate Guide to Lake Huron

Great Lakes | Ultimate Guide to Lake Erie

Great Lakes | Your Ultimate Guide to Lake Ontario