Lake Superior is one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes, bordered by four US states and the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Quebec. It covers almost 31,700 square miles and is the largest of the North American Great Lakes. It’s estimated to hold 12 percent of the world’s fresh surface-water supply, making it an important geographical feature in any exploration of the upper midwest. There has always been curiosity about how long it takes to drive around this great lake.
Statistics indicate that driving around Lake Superior can take anywhere from 70 to 90 hours, depending on the route taken and speed of travel, not including meal and restroom stops. The estimated distance is 1,700 miles and it is considered the longest road trip in the lower 48 states. Taking a clockwise route from Duluth, Minnesota and traveling through Ontario, Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota usually takes 10 to 12 days, depending on weather and road conditions.
For first time drivers interested in the trip, it is important to plan ahead. Experts recommend researching the route, mapping out a plan and making reservations in advance. The cost of the trip will depend on the cost of food and lodging, but with proper planning, it should be a budget-friendly journey. Additionally, it’s important to factor in alternate routes, just in case. If a road should be closed due to inclement weather, for example, a detour can be planned in advance.
Once underway, visitors may take a breather at many of the parks and points of interest along the way. For instance, there’s the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, the amazing Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and several scenic, rustic roadside restaurants with foods cooked in the local style. Mental preparation is also recommended, as boredom may set in due to the lengthy drive and monotony of scenic views. Music, podcasts, story-telling, and phone-based games can help combat the boredom and make the trip more enjoyable. With long stretches of road and no nearby cities, it is important to pay attention to road signs, speed limits, and be wary of fatigue due to long hours of driving.
The Ultimate Road Trip
With careful planning and preparations, driving around Lake Superior can be a memorable experience and the trip of a lifetime. During the drive, you will traverse the entirety of the Canadian shoreline of Lake Superior, through the temperate rain forests of the U.S. and past thundering waterfalls and jagged mountains of Ontario. Traveling the remote wilderness highways of this great lake can be an incredible opportunity to connect with nature and to embark on an ultimate road adventure.
The weather at Lake Superior can be unpredictable, so it’s important to check in with the locals before making the trip. They’ll be well-versed in the area and might point the driver in the right direction, letting them know of snowstorms, slippery roads, and possible flooding. With proper planning and precautions, the trip can be a fun, memorable experience with unbeatable views of the lake.
Some Interesting Facts
Lake Superior can evoke a dreamy, romantic feeling with its stunning landscape and sunsets. But, there are also some interesting facts about this great lake that make it an even more fascinating part of the region:
- It is the world’s deepest lake with a maximum depth of 1,333 feet.
- It contains 10 percent of all the planet’s fresh surface water.
- The lake’s surface temperature can reach 68 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.
- Though it’s the world’s largest freshwater lake, beaches are scarce because of its rocky shoreline.
- The deepest point in the lake can reach depths of 1,333 feet.
Sustainable Travel
Making the trip around Lake Superior is a great way to explore the lake and to appreciate its stunning landscape. However, it’s important to be socially and environmentally conscious during the journey. Carpooling can help limit the carbon footprint, and making sure to dispose of any trash that may accumulate along the way. Additionally, purchasing locally produced food and goods is beneficial to the eco-friendly movement in the area and helps to sustain the local economy.
Wildlife and Ecology
The Lake Superior region is an ecosystem that is home to a wide variety of wildlife, plants and animals. Visitors should be aware that they could share the road with bears, moose, deer and birds. Through the use of designated viewing areas, visitors can watch wildlife in its’ natural environment. To help support the sustainable ecology and tourism in the area, visitors should take the time to take pictures and study wildlife in the area.
Activities
Along the route there are plenty of ways to stay active and enjoy the splendor ofLake Superior and the surrounding regions. From camping among the many secluded beaches, to kayaking and canoeing around the rugged shoreline, to biking down vast and winding trails, there is a multitude of activities for visitors to take part in. Hiking through the breathtaking forests can also provide insight into the region’s history and culture.
Discovering the Culture
What a great road trip around Lake Superior is complete without an immersion into the culture of the local towns and communities? The route around the lake showcases several charming small towns, and hidden gems where visitors can explore local culture and art. From captivating art galleries, to historical venues of First Nation peoples, and witnessing amazing performances of traditional songs and dances, visitors can get a deeper understanding of this picturesque landscape.
