Founded by French missionaries in 1668, Sault Sainte Marie is Michigan’s oldest city and one of the oldest in the US. It is also home to the famous Soo Locks, a series of parallel locks that make river travel between Lake Superior and Lake Huron possible, thereby linking Superior to the lower Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. Opened in 1855 to allow ships to bypass the St. Marys River’s 21-foot fall over roiling rapids, this innovative lock system was one of the great engineering projects of its day. Today, it guides ships past Sault Sainte Marie and its twin city in Ontario.
The Soo Locks is a series of parallel locks that make river travel between Lake Superior and Lake Huron possible, thereby linking Superior to the lower Great Lakes and the Atlantic. Opened in 1855 to allow ships to bypass the river’s 21-foot fall over roiling rapids, this innovative lock system—along with the Erie Canal built 30 years prior—was one of the great engineering projects of its day. Today, it guides ships past the twin cities of Sault Ste. Marie in Ontario and Sault Ste. Marie in Michigan; its bridge crosses over the Soo Locks, connecting the two cities.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
St. Mary’s River by Foot
Visit Sault Sainte Marie’s shores to discover the importance of the Soo Locks and the city’s storied origins.
Historic Sault Sainte Marie
Delve into Sault Sainte Marie’s intriguing history as you walk through its most prominent districts.
Kayaking St. Mary’s River
Kayak and hike along the history-rich waterways of St. Marys River, enjoying scenic views in a verdant environment.
Hiking Tahquamenon Falls
Set off on a picturesque hike along the Tahquamenon River to immerse yourself in the region’s stunning nature.
Soo Fishing Trip
Sail the St. Mary’s River, a vital connection between the Great Lakes, to cast your line and admire local nature.
