Soo Locks — Attraction in Sault Ste. Marie

If you find yourself in Sault Ste. Marie, don’t miss a visit to the Soo Locks. This remarkable engineering feat is crucial for shipping between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes, allowing massive freighters to bypass the rapids of the St. Marys River.

Watching these colossal ships navigate the locks is fascinating, though sometimes an exercise in patience as well! The Locks feature enormous chambers that accommodate vessels up to 1,000 feet long, with a water level difference of 21 feet between the lakes. The sight of these giants moving smoothly through the locks showcases the ingenuity behind this engineering marvel.

The visitor center and observation platforms offer fantastic views and informative exhibits about the locks’ operation and history. You’ll gain a deep appreciation for the complexity and significance of this infrastructure. For a closer look, boat tours provide additional insights and an up-close view of the locks in action.

The surrounding area is also charming, with local shops and restaurants perfect for a day out. Overall, the Soo Locks are not just a vital transportation link but also a fascinating attraction. Whether you’re intrigued by engineering, history, or just looking for a unique experience, the Soo Locks will deliver an...

Awesome views, but absolutely ridiculous security and tyrannical rule over public land. Parking meters everywhere with parking police constantly using a space and waiting for a slip up, whole area fenced off with one small gate opening and GI Joe with mirror glasses and loaded with weapons and bullet proof jacket, asking me if I have weapons and checking the wife’s tiny Fanny pack. Totally rude and trying to be intimidating on public property. He needs to be on the southern border. It’s operated by the army (go figure) and they treat you like you’re a pos cadet or a criminal. I went in 98, rode my motorcycle right up to the free parking lot and went up on the bleachers without any fence or security. It’s a joke now. Bleachers replaced with a giant glassed in viewing area with a couple benches. Public property tho. Lol. Cool to see the freighters, but I wouldn’t recommend staying here. Super busy, even during the week. Hotels are not nice, but you pay for the location. Stay elsewhere and walk if you don’t want to pay to see your tax dollars working. I left and watch a group of Muslims with full garb, walk right through security unchecked. It’s all about politics and...

Boatnerd paradise!

Fun and interesting for those in the industry, boatnerds, those who are curious, tourists, and families alike.

It's great that the new lock is on its way to being completed to compliment the MacArthur and Poe Locks.

On this visit, I came for Engineer's Day. Due to COVID, it was very restricted for safety, but hopefully by next year it will be in full swing. Typically on Engineer's Day (the last Friday of June) the public can go behind the security fence and cross the lock gates. Folks can get close enough to touch ships passing through the two regularly operating locks and check out the mechanisms in the adjoining buildings.

Always check out the visitors center to learn more about the locks and get updates on boats and lakers coming through. The staff after very knowledgeable and take pride in their work.

Always fun...