The Lake Superior Circle Tour Map opens the door to one of North America’s most breathtaking journeys. This route wraps around mighty Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake on Earth by surface area. It crosses four U.S. states and the Canadian province of Ontario. The experience feels wild, vast, and deeply memorable.
If you are planning a Lake Superior road trip, this guide will help you understand every mile. You will learn about the route, distance, seasonal tips, border rules, lodging options, and hidden gems. This is more than a drive. It is a complete Great Lakes road trip through forests, cliffs, waterfalls, and historic harbor towns.
What is the Lake Superior?
The Lake Superior Circle Tour is a marked Lake Superior loop drive that follows the shoreline through Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Ontario. The total driving distance around Lake Superior is about 1,300 miles or 2,092 kilometers. Most travelers take 7 to 10 days to complete the full journey comfortably.
Many people ask, how long does it take to drive the Lake Superior Circle Tour. The answer depends on your pace. You can rush it in five days. However, that means long hours behind the wheel. The best direction to drive Lake Superior Circle Tour is clockwise starting in Michigan because it keeps the lake on your right side for easier scenic pull-offs.
Quick Facts Table
| Detail | Information |
| Total Distance | ~1,300 miles |
| Recommended Duration | 7–10 days |
| Countries Covered | USA & Canada |
| Best Season | June–September |
| Road Type | Scenic highway & rural roads |
This is not just a drive. It is a complete Lake Superior vacation itinerary filled with history, lighthouses, and remote wilderness.
Lake Superior Circle Tour Map and Route Overview
A clear Lake Superior Circle Tour map with stops makes planning easier. The loop passes through Duluth, Sault Ste. Marie, Thunder Bay, and Marquette. You will cross at least one Canada–US border crossing. Always review passport requirements for Canada road trip before departure.
You can download a printable Lake Superior Circle Tour map from the official tourism website at lake superior circle tour info. The Lake Superior scenic drive route includes long remote stretches. Gas stations around Lake Superior can be far apart in Ontario. Plan fuel stops carefully and check your mileage daily.
Michigan Stops on the Lake Superior Tour
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Michigan section feels rugged and dramatic. Start in Ironwood, Michigan near the Wisconsin border. Then explore Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park with its thick forests and lake views. Continue toward Copper Harbor, a quiet village surrounded by cliffs.
Munising is home to the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This national lakeshore features colorful sandstone cliffs rising above clear water. Kayak tours bring you close to arches and sea caves. Many travelers call it one of the must see places around Lake Superior.
Popular Michigan Highlights
| Location | Why Visit |
| Porcupine Mountains | Old-growth forest and hiking trails |
| Copper Harbor | Quiet harbor and dark sky views |
| Munising | Scenic waterfalls Lake Superior |
This stretch offers some of the best hiking trails Lake Superior Circle Tour visitors can find.
Wisconsin Highlights Along Lake Superior
Wisconsin’s shoreline feels charming and relaxed. Bayfield, Wisconsin serves as the gateway to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The famous Apostle Islands sea caves attract kayakers and photographers year-round.
Ashland sits along a calm harbor and features colorful murals. Scenic byways around Lake Superior pass through forests and farmland. Many travelers consider this region one of the best stops on Lake Superior Circle Tour because of its peaceful vibe.
Top Experiences in Wisconsin
| Attraction | Experience |
| Apostle Islands | Kayaking & ferry services |
| Bayfield | Apple orchards & harbor views |
| Ashland | Historic murals |
This section adds balance to your Upper Midwest road trip with culture and shoreline beauty.
You can also read about: Flathead Lake Tour Guide 2026: The Ultimate Montana Adventure
Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive
Minnesota’s North Shore is dramatic and powerful. Duluth, Minnesota welcomes visitors with a lively waterfront. Drive north to Gooseberry Falls State Park where rushing water crashes over stone ledges.
Further up the coast stands Split Rock Lighthouse State Park overlooking deep blue water. End in Grand Marais, a small harbor town filled with artists. This area showcases some of the top waterfalls on Lake Superior road trip lists.
The Lake Superior shoreline drive here includes frequent scenic overlook points. It is one of the most photographed sections of the entire loop.
Ontario’s Superior Country Must-See Stops
Cross into Canada and enter Ontario’s Superior Country. The wilderness becomes wider and quieter. Thunder Bay, Ontario offers restaurants and museums before you head toward Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
The giant rock formation looks like a sleeping figure. Hiking trails here reward you with panoramic lake views. Nearby, Kakabeka Falls thunders with incredible force. This is one of the strongest provincial park experiences along the route.
This stretch feels raw and untamed. It defines the northern spirit of the Great Lakes region.
Ontario’s Algoma Country Scenic Route
Continue into Ontario’s Algoma Country for one of the most scenic portions of the loop. Wawa, Ontario greets you with its famous goose statue. The surrounding forest bursts with color in autumn.
Lake Superior Provincial Park protects wild beaches and ancient rock art. The Agawa Canyon scenic area becomes especially beautiful during Lake Superior fall foliage season. Many travelers describe this region as a true hidden gem around Lake Superior.
This area feels remote. Plan fuel stops carefully. Gas stations can be limited.
Suggested 7–10 Day Lake Superior Circle Tour Itinerary
A well-paced 7 day Lake Superior Circle Tour itinerary allows you to enjoy highlights without stress. Spend Days 1–2 in Michigan exploring Porcupine Mountains and Pictured Rocks. Day 3 focuses on Bayfield and the Apostle Islands.
Days 4–5 cover Duluth and the North Shore. Days 6–7 explore Thunder Bay and Lake Superior Provincial Park. If you prefer a slower pace, a 10 day Lake Superior road trip plan gives more time for hiking trails and beaches.
Many people ask, can you do Lake Superior Circle Tour in 5 days. Yes, but you will miss many scenic stops.
Best Time to Do the Lake Superior Circle Tour
The best time to visit Lake Superior is between June and early October. A Lake Superior summer road trip offers long daylight hours and open parks. However, September brings brilliant fall colors Lake Superior travelers love.
Check Lake Superior weather by month before departure. Storms can develop quickly. Winter driving Lake Superior requires snow tires and caution. Many travelers also search, is Lake Superior Circle Tour open in winter. Some roads remain open but services may close.
A Lake Superior Circle Tour in fall colors offers incredible photography opportunities.
Lake Superior Circle Tour Travel Tips & Planning Guide
Before you leave, confirm if do you need a passport for Lake Superior Circle Tour applies to you. U.S. citizens must carry a valid passport for Canada entry. Always review border crossing tips US to Canada road trip guidelines online.
Budget planning matters. The cost of Lake Superior Tour varies depending on lodging and fuel. Affordable hotels near Lake Superior are available in larger towns. Campers should review a Lake Superior Circle Tour camping guide for available camping sites and RV travel regulations.
Estimated Travel Budget Table
| Category | Average Cost (7 Days) |
| Fuel | $250–$400 |
| Lodging | $700–$1,200 |
| Food | $350–$500 |
| Park Fees | $50–$100 |
Knowing your Lake Superior Tour travel budget helps avoid surprises.
FAQs
Q1. What are 5 facts about Lake Superior?
It is the largest freshwater lake by surface area, holds 10% of the world’s fresh surface water, is shared by the U.S. and Canada, is over 1,300 miles around, and has more than 350 shipwrecks.
Q2. What is the biggest predator in Lake Superior?
The biggest predator is the lake trout, which can grow over 3 feet long and live in deep cold water.
Q3. Can you ever swim in Lake Superior?
Yes, you can swim in summer, but the water stays very cold even on warm days.
Q4. What is the deepest part of Lake Superior?
The deepest part is about 1,332 feet deep, making it the deepest of the Great Lakes.
Q5. Are there great white sharks in Lake Superior?
No, great white sharks live in saltwater oceans and cannot survive in freshwater.
Q6. Which Great Lake never gives up its dead?
Lake Superior is known as the lake that never gives up its dead because its cold water slows decomposition.
Final Thoughts
The Lake Superior Circle Tour is more than just a road trip. It is a journey through wild nature, quiet towns, and powerful lake views that stay in your memory for years. From waterfalls and cliffs to lighthouses and forests, every mile feels different.
Plan your route well, take your time, and enjoy the simple beauty of Lake Superior. This adventure is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who love open roads and fresh air.