Lake Superior is the largest of North America’s Great Lakes, measuring 82 miles across at its widest point and nearly 400 miles in length. It contains a staggering 3 quadrillion gallons of water, exerting an influence on the cities that border its shores in ways big and small: the economy, recreational activities, weather, culture and more. Let’s take a closer look at the cities found on the shores of Lake Superior.
Thunder Bay, Ontario
Conveniently located just north of Lake Superior’s “Horn of Monsters” at the mouth of the Kaministiquia River, Thunder Bay is the largest city on Lake Superior with a population of over110,000 people. It’s home to a broad array of industrial, educational and economic activities, making it a keystone city for the Lake Superior region. The city’s unique geographic location, between the eastern and western parts of Canada, also makes it an important transportation hub.
Not surprisingly, Thunder Bay is also a popular destination for explorers seeking access to the lake’s spectacular scenery. The city is nestled on the lake’s north shore, making it easy to access the lake’s beautiful shorelines, remarkable islands and alluring bays. The city also offers plenty of indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities, festivals and events.
Marquette, Michigan
The city of Marquette, Michigan is situated along the “sunset coast” of Lake Superior’s south shore and has a population of around 21,000 people. It features many attractions, from water sports like sailing, kayaking and fishing to snowshoeing and skiing in nearby forests. Hiking, biking and so much more can all be found near the city.
Marquette is home to a number of museums and cultural landmarks, including the Marquette Maritime Museum, the Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum and the Marquette Regional History Center. This historic city is also the site of Lake Superior State University, which boasts a large collection of courses and programs in addition to a vibrant and lively student life.
Duluth, Minnesota
The city of Duluth is located at the southwestern corner of Lake Superior and is the third-largest city in Minnesota. With a population of around 86,000 people, Duluth is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in the state. While the city has a strong industrial base, it’s also known for its stunning natural attractions, including the North Shore Scenic Railroad, the Great Lakes Aquarium, the Great Lakes Visitor Center, the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center and the historic Aerial Lift Bridge.
In addition to being a popular tourist destination, Duluth is a great destination for outdoor adventurers, with easy access to a variety of hiking, biking and camping trails throughout the region. The city is also home to a number of festivals, including the Duluth Lake Superior Jazz Festival and the Duluth Art Institute’s Art in the Streets Festival.
Superior, Wisconsin
The city of Superior, Wisconsin is located in the northernmost point of the state and has a population of around 27,000 people. Because of its location at the intersection of the St. Louis River and the Great Lakes, Superior is an important port city in the region. It also serves as a departure point for ships and other vessels on their way to an eastern port.
Superior is also known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, from kayaking and canoeing to fishing and skiing. The city’s 834-acre Pattison State Park, located just west of the city, is home to the tallest waterfall in Wisconsin and offers easy access to Lake Superior and its beautiful scenery.
Ashland, Wisconsin
The city of Ashland sits at the southernmost tip of the shores of Lake Superior. This small city has a population of nearly 9,000 people and is known as a major port of the region, with ships often docking at the docks around Copper Island. The city is home to several museums, such as the Bay Area Heritage Museum and the Ashland Historical Museum, and plenty of parks, trails and recreational areas, including the Chequamegon National Forest.
The city is located right in the middle of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, which is home to a number of natural attractions, including sea caves, lighthouses and plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating and other water sports. The city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene and offers plenty of restaurants, galleries, boutiques and plenty of other attractions.
Houghton, Michigan
The city of Houghton, Michigan is located at the head of the Keweenaw Bay near the western end of the Upper Peninsula. With a population of around 8,500 people, the city is home to Michigan Technological University, which adds a vibrant university atmosphere to the city. The city also serves as a departure point to Isle Royale and its numerous hiking, camping and kayaking trails.
Houghton is surrounded by natural attractions and stunning scenery, including the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and the Keweenaw National Historical Park. The city also offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, including swimming, fishing, hiking and skiing. For a more urban experience, the city is home to a variety of shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as the Houghton County Historical Museum.
Bayfield, Wisconsin
Finally, the city of Bayfield, Wisconsin is located on the south shore of the lake and has a population of around 545 people. This small city is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the Lake Superior region, including the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and the Bayfield Peninsula. The city is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with events like the Bayfield Arts and Music Festival and the Bayfield Heritage Week Celebration.
The city’s harbor is home to many recreational activities and is the departure point for ferries to the islands of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, making it a popular destination for kayakers, hikers and boaters. The city also boasts a wide array of restaurants, galleries, shops and other attractions.
