How Many Miles Is The Lake Superior Circle Tour
The Lake Superior Circle Tour is one of the most popular road trips in North America, spanning over 9,500 miles around the great lake. This scenic tour takes travelers through Minnesota, Michigan, Ontario, and Wisconsin, allowing them to experience some of the best views and destinations the Midwest has to offer. All while taking in the beauty of the world’s largest body of freshwater, Lake Superior.
The most popular route begins in Duluth, Minnesota and takes travelers along the north shore of Lake Superior, through Ontario, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Wisconsin. The tour then continues down the Michigan shoreline and through Wisconsin, to the western end of the lake in Bayfield, closing the circuit. Families, retirees, and adventurers can all enjoy a full circle tour through these states.
“This is a great way for people to experience the stunning beauty of Lake Superior and the Midwest,” says Sarah Brown, a tour director from Minnesota. “It’s designed for people to get out and explore the great outdoors and cultural attractions, as well as to experience the local hospitality that each of these places have to offer.”
Those who brave the nine-day trip will be rewarded with picturesque vistas and remarkable historical sites. From the landmark Split Rock Light House, to the Grand Marais harbor and the Apostle Islands, it’s easy to stop frequently along the route and get off the beaten path.
The adventure requires some preparation, however. Tourists should bring with them appropriate clothing and supplies, as the trip can be unpredictable with changing temperatures and weather conditions. It’s also a good idea to check with local restaurants, resorts and campgrounds to secure accommodations in advance.
The Lake Superior Circle Tour is best undertaken during the warmer months of summer. Late July and August are the most popular months to visit the Wisconsin and Michigan shores. Travelers should also budget time for stops in tourist destinations, such as Grand Marais and Sault Sainte Marie, and plan for meals and rest stops along the way.
Considering all of these factors, the tour usually takes travelers around nine days to complete, with a total mileage of 9,578 miles. With an impressive total of 10 states, 15 National Recreation Areas, 13 National Lakeshores, 26 National Wildlife Refuges, and 15 State Parks, the Lake Superior Circle Tour books up quickly.
Estimated Time To Complete The Tour
Although the exact timeframe can vary depending on how much time someone wants to spend in each destination, the average completion time for the Lake Superior Circle Tour is somewhere between 8 and 10 days. About 800-1000 miles is covered each day, offering plenty of new and unique attractions along the route.
Scott Hansinger, a parks specialist from Wisconsin says “Everyday on the tour offers amazing experiences of breathtaking views and neat things to do. It’s amazing how much can be fit into one trip!”
The lake loop can be boiled down to its core sections, the Michigan Upper Peninsula and Minnesota North Shore, the Wisconsin North Shore, and the Ontario North Shore. This way, vacationers can break the journey down into shorter sections, making it easier to manage.
The official Facebook page of the Lake Superior Circle Tour estimates that it takes 7 to 8 days to complete the tour if travelers plan the visit well. Comparing to a round trip airline ticket around the globe, which takes approximately 24 hours, the trip sounds much longer – but its worth the wait.
Choosing The Best Time To Go
Weather and road conditions can vary greatly between states, so it’s important to plan your trip in advance. Generally speaking, the best time to explore the Lake Superior Circle Tour is during the summer months, from May to October. The prime months for viewing this natural beauty tend to be late July and August.
Tourists should also keep in mind that temperatures can vary drastically from the Wisconsin and Michigan Shoreline to the Northern part of Ontario. When embarking on their journey, it’s best to pack according to the highest temperature forecasted, as well as warm and waterproof clothing as a precaution.
“Weather can definitely be a factor when traveling around Lake Superior,” says Gail Smith, a tour guide from Detroit. “Don’t let a little rain ruin your trip. Just get out there and enjoy it! That’s what a road trip is all about.”
For travelers in search of maximum weather conditions, late summer and early fall are typically the best times to explore the Lake Superior Circle Tour. This allows vacationers to truly enjoy the warmth of Lake Superior and its surrounding areas.
Costs Associated With The Lake Superior Circle Tour
The estimated cost for a ten-day trip is anywhere from $1000 to $2000, covering gas, lodging and food expenses. Travelers should, of course, budget for extra sightseeing expenses such as boat rides and museum visits.
Tourists should also be aware that the cost of fuel around Lake Superior can be expensive and drive up the overall price of the trip. To save money, be sure to check out the fuel prices in each state before the journey begins. Many travelers also opt to bring a cooler of snacks and food along with them, instead of eating out in restaurants each night.
Visitors to Lake Superior are also encouraged to stay at properties that are registered with Travel Green Wisconsin or Travel Green Michigan, to reduce their carbon footprint. By choosing a certified green hotel, visitors can help minimize their impact on the environment, while enjoying a) eco-friendly accommodations.
“Traveling around Lake Superior and beyond can be an incredible experience and it doesn’t have to cost a lot,” remarks Brown. “Just be sure to plan your trip accordingly and make the most of your time on the road.”
Preparing for The Journey
As with any road trip, it’s wise to plan ahead and prepare for any “what if” scenarios. Drivers should check the condition of their vehicle before hand, making sure to keep up on regular maintenance, and carry the necessary supplies such as jumper cables, maps, and an ice scraper.
Families and adventurers alike should also take extra precautions when driving around Lake Superior, including carrying a first aid kit, and carrying extra blankets, water, and snacks in case of an unexpected delay. Be prepared with the right safety measures, so that travelers can enjoy their experience with peace of mind.
In addition, it’s a good idea to stop by a local Visitors’ Information Center before the trip and check out the local attractions and activities. Tourists can also make use of the official websites and social media pages of each state, such as Travel Green Wisconsin and Travel Green Michigan, to gain more insight on the various points of interest and activities.
“When exploring Lake Superior Circle Tour, it’s important to plan ahead and know what you want to see,” says Smith. “Be sure to leave enough time for all the activities – and don’t forget to take in the stunning views along the way.”
Rules and Regulations When Exploring The Circle Tour
Most states in the Lake Superior area have rules and regulations in place for visitors to abide by. These often include standard safety items, such as having a valid drivers’ license and auto insurance. Additionally, travelers should observe the wildlife in the area, and follow fishing regulations if they plan to do any fishing in the Great Lakes.
It’s also important to respect the cultural sites they visit along the way and be aware of the local laws and customs. Visitors should also look into national park regulations and fees, so that they can make the most of their trip without any unexpected surprises.
Finally, everyone should be mindful of the environmental impact of their exploration. Refrain from throwing garbage into the lake, and always opt for eco-friendly solutions when applicable. Be sure to not leave any trace of your presence behind when departing the area.
As the largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior is one of the most popular lakes in the world and an ideal vacation spot to explore. Touring the full circle of over 9,500 miles is something that all travelers should experience at least once in their lifetime.
