Setting off on a road trip provides an opportunity to break away from routine and dive into adventure, and there’s no better destination than the Lake Superior Circle Tour. This iconic route encircles the world’s largest freshwater lake, offering an unmatched blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal road trip. Here are nine reasons to pack your bags and embark on the Lake Superior Circle Tour:

Breathtaking Scenic Beauty

The Lake Superior Circle Tour is defined by its stunning and varied landscapes. Driving approximately 2,092 kilometres (1,300 miles) around the lake, you’ll be constantly greeted with breathtaking views. Towering cliffs, sprawling beaches, crystal-clear waters, dense forests, and rolling hills create a picture-perfect scene around every bend. Whether travelling through Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, or Ontario, you’ll experience the immense beauty of the largest of the Great Lakes. Discover grand, easily accessible vistas such as the Mt. Marquette Overlook, Brockway Mountain Lookout at the northern tip of the Upper Peninsula, the Nipigon Bridgeview Lookout Tower, and the Agawa Bay Scenic Lookout in Lake Superior Provincial Park.

Cultural and Historical Richness

The Lake Superior region is steeped in rich history and vibrant culture, from the Native American and First Nations people who have called this land home for centuries to the European explorers and settlers who followed. Along your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to explore historic lighthouses, mining towns, and maritime museums that tell the story of the lake and its surrounding communities. In Thunder Bay, Ontario, you can visit Fort William Historical Park, an immersive living history site that takes you back to the fur trade era of the 1800s. Meanwhile, the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point in Michigan tells the dramatic stories of shipwrecks on Lake Superior, including the famous wreck of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald. Discover the area’s copper mining history in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula at the Copper Range Historical Museum and Quincy Mine.

Epic Outdoor Adventure Opportunities

The Lake Superior Circle Tour is an endless adventure playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The region’s natural landscape offers various activities, from hiking and kayaking to fishing and camping. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan is a highlight for hikers, with its towering sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and miles of forested trails. Sleeping Giant Provincial Park in Ontario provides spectacular hiking opportunities with stunning views from the cliffs overlooking Lake Superior. Kayaking along the rugged shoreline, especially in places like the Apostle Islands in Wisconsin or the Slate Islands in Ontario, allows you to experience the lake from a whole new perspective. With abundant wildlife, including moose, black bears, and bald eagles, outdoor adventure is woven into every stop.

Charming Small Towns and Cities

As you circle Lake Superior, you’ll encounter a series of charming towns and cities, each offering its unique character. From the artsy vibe of Duluth, Minnesota, to the historic mining towns of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you’ll find friendly locals, quaint shops, and welcoming cafes. Duluth, located at the southwestern tip of the lake, is known for its rich maritime history, vibrant art scene, and impressive waterfront. Thunder Bay, Ontario, is another must-visit city, offering beautiful views of the Sleeping Giant and a thriving food and craft beer scene. The city of Sault Ste. Marie, situated on both sides of the border, provides insight into the past and present significance of the Lock System, which allows boats to navigate between the Great Lakes. Each town or city you pass through offers a taste of the local flavour, making your road trip diverse and enriching.

Endless Photo Opportunities

If you love to capture memories through photography, the Lake Superior Circle Tour will offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. The variety of landscapes—from deep forests to rocky cliffs and serene beaches—create an ever-changing backdrop perfect for capturing nature at its finest. Don’t miss the chance to photograph iconic spots like the Split Rock Lighthouse in Minnesota, the sea caves of the Apostle Islands, or the dramatic cliffs of Pictured Rocks. Along the north shore in Ontario, the Terry Fox Monument, Terrace Bay Lighthouse, and the Wawa Goose are photo favourites. Whether you’re a professional photographer or enjoy snapping pictures with your smartphone, you’ll be inspired at every stop.

Lighthouses That Tell Stories

One of the most fascinating features of the Lake Superior Circle Tour is the number of historic lighthouses that line the shores. These beacons of light have guided sailors safely through the sometimes treacherous waters of the lake for generations and are reminders of the region’s maritime heritage. Some of the most famous lighthouses along the tour include Split Rock Lighthouse in Minnesota, Big Bay Point Lighthouse in Michigan (which also operates as a bed and breakfast), and the easily accessible red-and-white lighthouse in Terrace Bay, Ontario. Many of these lighthouses offer tours, providing panoramic views and a glimpse into the life of a lighthouse keeper.

Experience the Mighty Lake Superior

One of the most compelling reasons to take the Lake Superior Circle Tour is the chance to fully experience the lake’s majesty. Known for its cold, crystal-clear water, Lake Superior is a natural wonder. Standing on its shores, you’ll feel the lake’s immense power and serenity, which can sometimes resemble the ocean in its vastness. Swimming in Lake Superior is a refreshing experience, but be prepared for the cold water—even in summer! Explore the world’s largest freshwater lake from the deck of a sailboat with Sail Superior in Thunder Bay. Fish for lake trout, salmon, and whitefish with one of the many fishing guides who will provide an unforgettable experience. For those who enjoy paddling, Naturally Superior Adventures can help you discover calm coves and bays where you can soak in the lake’s beauty.

An Abundance of Waterfalls

The Lake Superior region is home to many waterfalls that are easily accessible from the road. The contrast of rushing water against the rugged terrain creates dramatic, photo-worthy scenes that will surely be a highlight of your trip.
Some of the most notable waterfalls include Kakabeka Falls outside Thunder Bay, often called the “Niagara of the North,” the spectacular Tahquamenon Falls in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Aguasabon Falls near Terrace Bay, Ontario. The sound of the water crashing against the rocks and the sight of mist rising into the air add a sense of wonder to your road trip.

A Chance to Disconnect and Reconnect with Nature

The Lake Superior Circle Tour offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Discover the many State Parks and Ontario Provincial Parks that let you camp beneath the stars. Let the soothing sounds of rushing water from the many waterfalls and the rhythmic sounds of waves breaking on the shore soothe the soul. Traverse remote stretches of highway where you’ll find yourself surrounded by the vastness of the wilderness, with little but the sound of the wind and the waves to keep you company.
This road trip encourages you to slow down, breathe deeply, and take in the world. The Lake Superior Circle Tour is a bucket-list adventure for anyone seeking stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and outdoor activities. Whether travelling solo, with friends, or as a family, this road trip offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags, fuel your car, and embark on an unforgettable journey around the majestic Lake Superior.