Soo Locks, Ship lock system in Sault Ste. Marie, United States
The Soo Locks system consists of parallel canals with elevation-adjusting chambers connecting Lake Superior to Lake Huron through the St. Marys River.
Construction of the first lock began in 1855, marking the start of a vital maritime link that earned National Historic Landmark status in 1966.
The Soo Locks Visitor Center presents exhibitions, documentaries, and educational programs about maritime navigation and engineering throughout the Great Lakes region.
The locks operate from March through January, with scheduled maintenance during winter months when ice prevents navigation on the Great Lakes.
The lock system processes an average of 12,000 vessels per year, making it the highest-volume lock system in North America.
Location: Sault Ste. Marie
Inception: 1855
GPS coordinates: 46.50333,-84.35000
Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:12
Navigation locks connect seas, regulate rivers and enable ship traffic between different water levels. These engineering structures shape maritime infrastructure from Panama to China. The facilities serve shipping, power generation and water regulation. They are essential components of international trade and regional development.
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