Lake Superior, Minnesota Experiences

Covering 31,700 square miles, Lake Superior in Minnesota is the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area and the largest of the Great Lakes, extending into Canada. It supports diverse wildlife, especially fish, and has a rich history of shipwrecks, some still undiscovered. The region offers beautiful nature and sightseeing opportunities. If you're planning a trip, this article can guide you on your visit!

Fishing on Lake Superior: Let’s Reel It In

Lake Superior fish are a big draw for those visiting the area. Many large species of fish dwell within the waters, such as lake trout, northern pikes, lake sturgeons, walleyes, and burbots. 

Lake Superior Fishing - Optimum Charters has been around for over 50 years. They focus on safety first and try to create a positive experience for their clients. Their charter boat, called Opti II, is equipped with all of the fishing equipment anyone would need. There are many other charter options as well!

Lake Superior fishing is a great activity for a family, a group of friends, a couple, or any other demographic of people. Whether it’s your first time or whether you’re an experienced fisherman, Lake Superior, Minnesota, has fishing activities that will be great for you!

Shipwrecked

Fun fact about Lake Superior: many shipwrecks have taken place. Whatever the reason for these accidents, the Lake Superior Shipwrecks have made the lake the most historical of the Great Lakes.

The Storm That Sank the SS Edmund Fitzgerald

The SS Edmund Fitzgerald was once the largest ship on the Great Lakes of America. But on November 10, 1975, a fierce storm hit, and the boat was shipwrecked. This incident claimed the lives of all 29 crew members. One strange fact is that this boat sank without sending out a distress signal. 

The SS Bannockburn Disappearance

The SS Bannockburn was a Canadian ship famous for vanishing on November 21, 1902. Despite extensive searching, this shipwreck remains undiscovered aside from the recovery of an oar and a life preserver. No bodies were ever retrieved. After continually searching to no avail, this ship was given the nickname of “The Flying Duchmann of the Great Lakes.”

Captain Burke’s SS Arlington 

The Arlington Shipwreck on Lake Superior is harrowing. While searching for shipwrecks, Dan Fountain discovered the SS Arlington, which sank on May 1, 1940. Captain Frederick Burke, a skilled mariner, strangely stayed in his cabin, leaving command to his mates. When a storm hit, the crew struggled to keep the boat afloat and eventually abandoned ship. Captain Burke stayed onboard and went down with the vessel, leaving his motivations unknown and adding to the fascination of the Arlington Shipwreck.

Shipwreck Discovery Diving

If you are a certified diver, shipwreck diving in Lake Superior is a cool option to explore the wreckage. See ships such as the SS Emperor and SS Western Reserve to learn more about the Keweenaw Underwater Preserve. Shipwreck diving is also an experience that allows divers to learn unique skills and the fragility of sailing. It will be one of the more unique Lake Superior, Minnesota experiences.

The Lake Superior Circle Tour

The self-guided tour around Lake Superior is a great option for those who want to take in the sights at their own pace. Spanning a distance of 1,300 miles, you can take this scenic route by car, RV, boat, motorcycle, or bike.

The Ale Trail is a featured activity of the circle tour. Should guests decide to participate, they will be immersed in a path that leads to wineries, breweries, and various shops. Another potential activity is the stamp program, which allows its participants to receive a stamp at the end of their journey with the signature “I’ve completed the Lake Superior Circle Tour” words on it.

If you are unsure of where to start or what to do, don’t worry! Trip planning and maps are available online. Speak with experienced guides to determine your route and activities. There are even some private tours available in the area. The Lake Superior Circle Tour will be an experience to remember!

Nature Experiences

Lake Superior, Minnesota, has a variety of things to do nearby. Because of its natural geography, many of the best activities are immersed in Mother Nature. From gorgeous forests to lighthouses with views of the glistening lake, there are a lot of things to explore.

Gooseberry Falls State Park

One of the best things to do near Lake Superior is Gooseberry Falls State Park. This North Shore park features scenic overlooks, beautiful waterfalls, trout fishing, and a visitor center. Learn about the geology, history, and wildlife of the North Shore by taking an interactive program. With hiking, cross-country, and snowmobiling trails, Gooseberry Falls State Park has a lot to offer!

Split Rock Lighthouse

Because of the surplus of underwater shipwrecks in Lake Superior, the Split Rock Lighthouse was constructed to create a safer environment for sailors. Construction was completed by the U.S. Lighthouse Service in 1910, and this structure quickly became one of Minnesota’s best-known landmarks. 

Palisade Head

This scenic viewpoint is located in Silver Bay, Minnesota. Silver Bay, located up against Lake Superior, is a natural tourism area that attracts visitors every year. Palisade Head offers views of Lake Superior and the surrounding area. It is full of wildlife, from towering trees to soaring falcons. The views of Palisade Head are stunning and surely an experience to enjoy.