The History of the Soo Locks
The Soo Locks are not just a marvel of engineering—they are a critical link between two of North America's largest bodies of water and a vital part of the history of the Great Lakes region. Located in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, the locks serve as a gateway that connects Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes, allowing ships to navigate around the rapids of the St. Marys River. Today, visitors can explore this iconic landmark firsthand with The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours. Come aboard and discover the fascinating history behind this essential waterway.
The Birth of the Soo Locks: Overcoming the Rapids
The St. Marys River, which flows between Lake Superior and Lake Huron, was once a natural barrier for ships. The river’s powerful rapids made it nearly impossible for large vessels to travel from one lake to the other. In the early 19th century, this posed a major challenge for trade and transportation in the region. With the growing demand for commercial shipping between the Great Lakes, the need for a solution was clear.
In 1855, the first Soo Lock was completed, opening up a new era of trade and commerce. It was a monumental achievement for the time, allowing ships to bypass the treacherous rapids and navigate safely between the lakes. The locks were originally built to accommodate the booming fur trade and later became crucial to industries like steel, mining, and agriculture.
Over the years, the Soo Locks have been expanded and modernized to keep pace with the demands of larger vessels and the evolving economy. Today, the system includes several locks, with the most famous being the Poe Lock, which handles most of the freighter traffic passing through the Soo.
The Role of the Soo Locks in Shaping the Region
Beyond their significance to shipping, the Soo Locks played a pivotal role in the development of Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding region. The completion of the locks spurred the growth of industry, bringing economic prosperity to the area and transforming Sault Ste. Marie into a bustling port city. The introduction of the locks also brought about a population boom as people from all over the world came to work on and around the locks.
The Soo Locks became central to the story of the Great Lakes shipping industry, enabling vast quantities of goods—such as iron ore, coal, and grain—to be transported across the region. To this day, the locks facilitate the movement of cargo, and their strategic importance has only grown with time.
The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours: A Journey Through History
A visit to the Soo Locks isn’t complete without experiencing the story behind this engineering wonder. The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours offers a unique opportunity to see the locks up close and learn about their history from knowledgeable guides.
Our tours take you through the heart of this historic site, where you’ll watch massive freighters pass through the locks, often up close, giving you a rare and awe-inspiring view of the process. As you cruise the St. Marys River, our expert guides will share fascinating details about the construction of the locks, the people who built them, and how they have evolved over the years to accommodate modern shipping needs.
Our tours also offer views of the adjacent U.S. and Canadian shores, giving you a chance to appreciate the Soo Locks from multiple perspectives. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of maritime traditions, or simply looking for a scenic and educational experience, a tour with The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours is an unforgettable way to connect with the past and present of the Great Lakes.
Why Visit the Soo Locks?
- Learn about an Engineering Marvel: The Soo Locks are one of the largest and busiest locks systems in the world. Understanding how they work and the ingenuity behind them is an educational experience for visitors of all ages.
- Witness Ships in Action: On a typical tour, you can watch massive freighters as they are raised or lowered through the locks, offering an up-close look at a process that’s been taking place for over 160 years.
- Experience Natural Beauty: Beyond the locks, the St. Marys River and surrounding landscape offer breathtaking views. Whether you’re looking at the historical architecture of the lock system or simply enjoying the scenic vistas, the area is a photographer’s dream.
- A Connection to the Past: The Soo Locks are more than just a passageway—they are a living testament to the history of trade, innovation, and the growth of the Great Lakes region. Visiting them is like stepping back in time.
Plan Your Visit
The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours operate daily during the summer months, with a variety of tour options available to suit every schedule. Tours typically last between 1.5 to 2 hours and depart from our conveniently located dock in downtown Sault Ste. Marie. Our boats are fully equipped with comfortable seating and guided commentary, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.
Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to rediscover the history of the Soo Locks, we invite you to join us for a memorable experience. Learn about the past, witness the power of modern shipping, and see one of the most important historical sites in the Great Lakes region—all from the best vantage point: the water.
Book your tour with The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours today and step into the history of the Great Lakes!