Sault Ste. Marie Michigan

Looking back at the Point Iroquois Lighthouse

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Family appreciating the enchanting scene of Tahquamenon Falls in winter

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Watching the sunset on one of many pristine beaches

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Taking photos at The Soo Locks

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A hiker exploring the snowy landscape of the Algonquin Cross-Country Ski Trail

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The Sault Tribe playing traditional drums

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Kayaking alongside a larger ship

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Snowmobile gliding along the Mission Hill trail in Hiawatha National Forest

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Boaters watching a massive freighter cruise along the St. Marys River

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Pausing to witness a vessel pass through the Soo Locks

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Spring

4 - 16 ºC

Summer

12 - 23 ºC

Fall

-2 - 5 ºC

Winter

-11 - -2 ºC

January

-13 - -4 ºC

February

-13 - -3 ºC

March

-8 - 2 ºC

April

-1 - 9 ºC

May

5 - 17 ºC

June

9 - 22 ºC

July

13 - 24 ºC

August

13 - 24 ºC

September

9 - 20 ºC

October

3 - 12 ºC

November

-2 - 5 ºC

December

-8 - -1 ºC

Major Airports:

Sault Ste. Marie (YAM)

MBS/Freeland (MBS)
States:

Michigan

Explore the sights of Michigan’s first city.

Michigan’s birthplace, Sault Ste. Marie, is a land of vast natural beauty that forms the nexus between countries, lakes and cultures. The state’s first city is found on the shores of the St. Marys River – a vital waterway that connects the Great Lakes and provides an aquatic border with Canada. With a rich history comprised of Native American, French and British influences, the community affectionately known as “The Soo” offers much to see and do. Sample fresh caught whitefish, hike to an icy waterfall, stretch out on a pristine beach, or visit historic lighthouses. Soak up the architecturally significant structures and spend an evening enjoying a lively nighttime scene that includes gaming, concerts, dining and a brewery.

Maritime Majesty

Sault Ste. Marie is home to the Soo Locks – a canal system that uses water to raise and lower ships and other vessels six meters between Lake Superior and Lake Huron levels. Built 160 years ago, the locks provide passage for more than 8 million tons of grain, coal, iron ore and other important natural resources distributed throughout the Great Lakes region. Visitors can trace that path and explore the river aboard a Soo Locks Boat Tours vessel. Back on land, a picturesque park and informative visitor center is found at the Soo Locks complex. Visit Museum Ship Valley Camp – a retired shipping freighter that now houses hundreds of nautical exhibits – and the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at the Whitefish Point Lighthouse. Climb to the top of Point Iroquois Lighthouse’s nearly 20-meter tower for sweeping views of Lake Superior and Sault Ste. Marie.

The Wonder of Nature

Lake Superior’s sparkling fresh water is enjoyed by swimmers, boaters and anglers. Its beaches and parks offer the perfect location for a leisurely walk or waterfront relaxation. Mother Nature is also on display at nearby Tahquamenon Falls State Park, where thundering waterfalls cascade over rocks. The Upper Falls drop more than 15 meters to the river below. The Lower Falls provide a succession of smaller falls, each more beautiful than the last. The park features hiking trails, rowboat rentals, and food and gifts for purchase. Go deep into the woods in the Hiawatha National Forest, the perfect place for hiking and wildlife viewing.

North American Culture

Native Americans were Sault Ste. Marie’s first residents, where they lived on the abundant foods found in the waters and woods surrounding the city. Tribes from near and far found a gathering place in the Soo. Today, visitors participate in this heritage by attending annual Pow Wow celebrations, visiting local museums and listening to native storytellers share the lives of their ancestors here at Bahwating – the native name for Sault Ste. Marie. Ascend the Tower of History’s 64 meters by swift elevator to marvel at the city stretching out below you all the way to the Canadian wilderness, then explore the two-level museum’s informative exhibits devoted to area culture.