From Lake Huron to Lake Superior – Lock through the historic canal

Visitor safety - how to lock through  

Guide your boat into the lock at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal and feel the power of the water as it lifts you from Lake Huron to Lake Superior, bypassing the St. Marys River Rapids.

Experience the power of water as you and your boat rise gently from Lake Huron to Lake Superior, bypassing the St. Marys River Rapids in the recreational lock at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal. No boat? No worries. It’s fun to watch the lock in action from the observation deck or from your picnic blanket spread out on the grass on the banks of the canal.

The original Sault Ste. Marie Canal and lock opened in 1895. It was the world’s longest lock and the first to be powered by electricity. Though the historic lock closed more than two decades ago, the original lock gate machinery is still used in the new lock and interpreters/guides will be on hand to share its history.

Built inside the original historic lock chamber, the recreational lock opened in 1998 and is available for all pleasure watercraft from kayaks and sailboats to tour boats and yachts.

The recreational lock is open daily from May 15 to October 15 each year.