The Soo Locks, also known as the Sault Ste. Marie Locks, are a system of canals and locks that allow ships to navigate between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. Located in the city of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, the locks are a vital part of the Great Lakes shipping industry, enabling the transportation of goods and materials between the Midwest and Eastern Canada.
The first Soo Locks were constructed in 1855, opening up the upper Great Lakes to commercial shipping. Over the years, the locks have been expanded and modernized to accommodate larger vessels and increasing traffic. Today, the Soo Locks are one of the busiest lock systems in the world, with over 10,000 vessels passing through annually.
The Soo Locks consist of four parallel locks, each with a length of 1,350 feet (411 meters) and a width of 80 feet (24 meters). The locks raise and lower ships by using a system of gates and water-filled chambers. The process of navigating through the locks takes approximately two hours.
How the Locks Work:
The Soo Locks play a crucial role in the economy of the Great Lakes region. The shipping industry generates billions of dollars in revenue annually and supports thousands of jobs. The locks facilitate the transportation of various commodities, including iron ore, coal, grain, and finished goods.
Measure | Value |
---|---|
Annual revenue | $7 billion |
Jobs supported | Over 5,000 |
Cargo transported | >80 million tons annually |
The Soo Locks are a popular tourist destination, attracting over 2 million visitors annually. Visitors can observe the operation of the locks from the Soo Locks Visitor Center, which offers guided tours and exhibits on the history and operation of the locks. The locks are also visible from a nearby park, providing panoramic views of the ships and the surrounding area.
Visiting the Soo Locks:
1. How long does it take to go through the Soo Locks?
Approximately two hours.
2. How many locks are there at the Soo Locks?
Four.
3. What is the largest ship that has ever passed through the Soo Locks?
The SS Edmund Fitzgerald, which was 729 feet (222 meters) long and weighed 13,632 tons.
4. How much does it cost to visit the Soo Locks?
Admission is free.
5. Is parking available at the Soo Locks?
Yes, free parking is available on-site.
6. What is the best time to visit the Soo Locks?
During the summer months, when there is a higher frequency of ship traffic.
7. Are there any restrictions on photography at the Soo Locks?
No, photography is allowed.
8. Is there a visitor center at the Soo Locks?
Yes, the Soo Locks Visitor Center offers guided tours and exhibits on the history and operation of the locks.
Lock | Length (ft) | Width (ft) | Depth (ft) |
---|---|---|---|
Poe Lock | 1,350 | 110 | 32 |
Macy Lock | 1,350 | 80 | 27 |
Davis Lock | 1,350 | 80 | 27 |
Sabin Lock | 1,350 | 80 | 27 |
Year | Tonnage (tons) |
---|---|
2021 | 82,454,183 |
2020 | 60,690,565 |
2019 | 78,139,150 |
2018 | 78,624,245 |
2017 | 82,716,916 |
Year | Number of Lockages |
---|---|
2021 | 10,602 |
2020 | 8,736 |
2019 | 10,306 |
2018 | 10,400 |
2017 | 10,785 |
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