The Soo Locks are a set of water locks that were built and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that enables ships to move between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Constructed in the mid-1800s, the locks are fondly known as the ‘Linchpin of the Great Lakes’ and are an engineering marvel that draws thousands of tourists to see them every year.

The Soo Locks see more than 7,000 vessels including barges, tugboats, and huge freighters, passing through each year, being lifted, and lowered the 21-foot difference between the two lakes.

An observation deck named after General Douglas MacArthur is in the Soo Locks Park and offers fantastic views of ships passing through the working locks.

Soo Locks, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, Phone: 906-632-3366, Map

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