Soo Locks
A large lock system across the river in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, where observation decks offer close views of giant freighters passing through.
The Soo Locks lie across the St. Mary's River in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, USA. They are among the busiest lock systems in the world, with some 7,000-plus freighters passing through each year, including the longest 'thousand-footers.' The free Soo Locks Park has elevated observation decks and a visitor center, where you can watch giant ships being raised and lowered at close range. You can also take a roughly 2-hour Soo Locks boat tour and pass through the locks yourself. Crossing the International Bridge from the Canadian side requires a passport and US entry documentation, and border wait times are unpredictable.
Opening hours
Observation deck approx. May–Oct 09:00–21:00
Nearby sights
- Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site
- Museum Ship Valley Camp
- Roberta Bondar Park & Boardwalk
- Art Gallery of Algoma
- Ermatinger–Clergue National Historic Site
- Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre
- Hiawatha Highlands
- Point Iroquois Light