Embarking on the Lake Superior Circle Tour is one of the most unforgettable road trips in North America. Whether you are chasing waterfalls, exploring small towns, or discovering hidden beaches, careful Lake Superior Circle Tour planning will help you make the most of every mile around the world’s largest freshwater lake.
1. Start with the Adventure Guide
Your first step in planning should be ordering the official Lake Superior Circle Tour Adventure Guide. This free and comprehensive guide includes maps, must-see attractions, travel tips, and insider recommendations for each region along the route. It is an essential resource to keep handy as you prepare for your trip.
2. Use the Online Map for Route Planning
Next, visit the interactive online map to plan your route. The map highlights scenic lookouts, accommodations, restaurants, and attractions along the Circle Tour. You can build and save your own custom itinerary right on the website, making it easy to design a route that matches your interests and schedule.
3. Download the Mobile App
Once your route is set, download the Lake Superior Circle Tour mobile app. The app syncs with your saved trip from the website so you can easily access your personalized itinerary while you are on the road. It includes detailed listings for attractions, accommodations, and dining options organized to match your planned route around Lake Superior.
4. Choose Your Direction
A key part of Lake Superior Circle Tour planning is deciding whether to travel clockwise or counterclockwise. Each direction offers unique views and advantages. Clockwise travelers often find easier access to lakeside pull-offs, while counterclockwise routes offer some amazing views from the comfort of your vehicle.
5. Pick the Best Time of Year
The Lake Superior region offers something special in every season. Summer brings warm weather and lively communities, perfect for beach stops and outdoor festivals. Fall is ideal for photography with its vibrant colors and crisp air. Spring features powerful waterfalls and fresh green growth, while winter offers quiet roads and snowy adventures for those who love the cold.
6. Prepare for Cell Service
Before you set out, check with your service provider and review cell phone coverage along the Circle Tour. Coverage can vary, especially in remote areas. Knowing what to expect helps you stay connected and prepared as you travel between communities and across borders.
7. Research Travel Games
Make your road trip even more interactive by exploring some of the Circle Tour’s unique travel games. The Lake Superior Circle Tour Stamp Collection Program lets you collect stamps at various locations around the lake and earn a certificate of accomplishment once you complete the tour. You can also play Lake Superior Circle Tour Bingo, a fun way to spot landmarks, attractions, and experiences as you travel.
8. Explore Themed Routes
Enhance your adventure by following one of the themed routes designed for enthusiasts. The Lake Superior Ale Trail highlights some of the best craft breweries around the lake, while the Lake Superior Java Journey takes coffee lovers on a delicious tour of local cafés and roasters. Both trails are great ways to discover local flavor and meet the people behind it.
9. Book Accommodations Early
The Circle Tour passes through both Canada and the United States, offering a wide range of accommodations. Lakeside cabins, boutique hotels, cozy motels, and campgrounds are all available along the way. Booking early ensures you have the best options, especially during the busy summer and fall travel seasons.
10. Don’t Forget the Essentials
Be sure to pack passports for crossing between Canada and the U.S., as well as local currency and travel insurance. Weather around Lake Superior can change quickly, so bring layers for all conditions. And do not forget your camera, because every turn in the road offers another stunning view. You can even enter your best shots in the Lake Superior Circle Tour Photo Contest for a chance to be featured in the next Lake Superior Circle Tour Adventure Guide.
Start Planning Your Lake Superior Circle Tour Today
With the right resources and preparation, your Lake Superior Circle Tour planning can be both easy and exciting. Use the Adventure Guide, online map, and mobile app to create your personalized trip and get ready for an unforgettable journey around Lake Superior.
