We went on a boat tour to see the Soo Locks close up, and in action. These are the locks that connect Lake Superior to Lake Huron.


Soo Locks History

The St. Marys River is the only water connection between Lake Superior and the other Great Lakes. Near the upper end of the river the water drops 21 feet over hard sandstone in a short ¾ mile long stretch. This rapids, or “sault” to use the original old French term, made it impossible for trade vessels to pass. Vessels had to be unloaded and their contents portaged around. In 1797 the first lock on the St. Marys River was constructed on the north shore to provide passage for trade canoes. 

This lock was destroyed by American forces during the War of 1812 and cargoes once again had to be unloaded, hauled overland, and reloaded until a new lock opened in 1855.
http://www.lre.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/SooLocksVisitorCenter/SooLocksHistory.aspx


Pretty cool to go from one lack, then get pumped up 21 feet, exit the other side, then do the opposite coming back to the dock.
Steve and Kim