Soo Locks, Michigan, United States

5chasinUpstateNewYork 5:00 PM Sep 26, 2022

I suppose you don't to to the SOO to NOT see the locks
I've been around water and boats and canale all my life, so locks are not a mystery to me. I've locked thru the St Lawrence Seaway, even. I'd never seen the SOO LOCKS, and so now one more bucket on my list is checked. Post-911 security means we tourists are kept well away from the workings of the locks, Watching a "Footer" (the ships of 1,000 ft length or greater) enter the locks is a testament to the pilot's skills, it was WINDY straight astern as the ship (which barely fits the locks) made her way in. You can look on line to check the ships scheduled to transit the locks, helping you plan your visit time. I'd suggest allowing at least 45 minutes, if the ship is on approach, longer if the ship isn't already entering the chamber. NOTE parking on the steet adjacent to the locks is PAY.

5tedwards 5:00 PM Sep 26, 2020

Beautiful place to spend some time
This is the focal point of Sault Ste. Marie, basically a large park surrounded by a (nice-looking) iron security fence. Because it's a government facility run by the Army Corps of Engineers, you'll be asked as you walk through the entry gate if you're bringing any weapons or drugs in, and they may search your bag. It was always a very quick process for me (I made multiple visits), and the guards are very professional. Once inside, you can get very close up to the Locks themselves, and really appreciate the size of the ships that pass through. The viewing stands (for a higher up view) were closed as of July 2020, but you can still get right up to the fence for some great photos of the ships, as well as the historic Administration Building and the Locks themselves. There are also informational banners attached to the fence that do a nice job helping you understand the importance of the site, and of Great Lakes shipping in general. The Visitor Center was also closed, but they had a table out front with brochures and information, and a ranger who was very friendly and willing to answer to questions. Across the street from the Locks are souvenir and other shops. Prime parking in town is metered, so be sure to have some quarters handy. If you don't mind walking a little, there is free parking a little further down. I recommend grabbing some fudge from "Fudge du Locke" across the street first, then enter the park and find a nice spot to enjoy watching the ships lock through.