Lake Superior is the largest and most northern of the five Great Lakes of North America. It is located between the U.S. states of Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Many people visit the Lake Superior because of its incredible natural beauty and vibrant aquatic life. It has a rich history, with Native Americans having lived in the areas surrounding the lake since prehistory. To this day, the lake remains an important part of the culture of the Great Lakes region, as well as a major source of freshwater and recreation.
The three states that border Lake Superior are Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. Each state offers unique experiences while still offering access to the lake. Michigan is the largest of the three states and includes a large portion of the lake’s coastline. The cities of Marquette and Escanaba, both located on the southern shore, are popular vacation spots. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is full of trails and breathtaking views. Wisconsin has fewer miles of coastline, but its Apostle Islands are renowned for their beauty and boating opportunities. The town of Bayfield is located on the northern coast and is well known for its picturesque harbor and wildlife. Finally, Minnesota has the longest lakefront of all three states with nearly 600 miles of shoreline. Duluth, the Twin Cities, and the North Shore of Minnesota are all popular tourist spots, due to the many activities, campgrounds, and fishing areas they offer.
The water in Lake Superior is highly generally clean and pure due to a combination of glaciation and low population density. Research conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency and the University of Minnesota has found that the lake is home to more than 150 species of fish, including a variety of sturgeons, lake trout, walleye, lake whitefish, and lake herring. The lake is also known for its spectacular shipwrecks, which draw visitors from all over the world.
The Three State Line Water Trail is a popular mixed-use waterway that runs through Lake Superior and portions of Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. This trail allows paddlers to explore the lake from multiple perspectives, from touring iconic lighthouses to exploring nature and wildlife. Lake Superior is also known for its amazing bird migrations, as hundreds of species of birds flock to the shores of the lake every spring and autumn.
The Native American culture holds a deep reverence for Lake Superior. The Ojibwe (also called Anishinaabe or Chippewa) have a long and ongoing relationship with the lake. For generations, they have relied on the lake for sustenance and transportation, and it is known as Gichigami, or “big sea” in the Ojibwe language. Today, there are many Ojibwe tribal governments on the shorelines of Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota who continue to support and participate in Lake Superior initiatives.
Lake Superior is a unique and beautiful body of water that is home to many different types of species and cultures. It is an important part of the cultural landscape of the Great Lakes region, as well as an important economic resource. For those looking to explore the pristine waters and breathtaking scenery of the lake, visiting Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota are all great choices.
Fishing
Fishing on Lake Superior is a favorite pastime of many locals, and it’s no wonder why. It offers some of the most diverse and plentiful fishing opportunities around. From lake trout, walleye, whitefish, lake herring, and many other species of fish, visitors are sure to find plenty of great spots for a successful day of fishing. Along with wading or shore fishing, visitors can also rent boats for a full day of fishing on the lake. Fishing guides are also available to assist with finding the right spots and providing fishing tips.
Cruises
The magnificent landscape of Lake Superior is a must-see. Taking a cruise of the lake is a great way to experience the spectacular beauty of the lake and shoreline up close. Visitors can book a cruise to explore shipwrecks and lighthouses, see migrating birds, and spot bald eagles and other wildlife. Cruises are also a great way to take in the beautiful sunsets that Lake Superior is known for.
Camping
Lake Superior is a great location for a camping trip. With the lake’s immense size and huge variety of shoreline, it is easy to find a great spot to call home while exploring the region. From state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds, visitors are sure to find a spot that suits their needs. Visitors also have a variety of activities to choose from while camping, such as wildlife watching, biking, kayaking, and fishing.
Restaurants
When it comes to dining near Lake Superior, visitors have plenty of options. From mouth-watering seafood dishes served in waterfront restaurants, to small eateries and pubs serving up great sandwiches and local beers, visitors won’t have to look hard to find a great place to eat. For those looking for a unique dining experience, the cities of Marquette and Duluth are both known for their diverse restaurant scenes.
