Where Is Lake Superior on a Map?

Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes and the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area, dominates the north-central portion of North America. It straddles the international border between the United States and Canada, serving as a vital waterway and a significant geographical landmark.

Locating Lake Superior with Precision

Finding Lake Superior on a map is relatively straightforward. Its distinctive shape and considerable size make it easily identifiable. Specifically, it lies:

• West of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron: These other Great Lakes form a chain, with Superior being the westernmost and most northerly.
• North of the states of Wisconsin and Michigan: These two states border its southern shore.
• South of the Canadian province of Ontario: Ontario constitutes the entire northern shoreline of Lake Superior.
• East of the state of Minnesota: The northeastern tip of Minnesota touches Lake Superior, particularly in the area around Duluth.

To pinpoint its exact location, look for its approximate center around 47°N latitude and 88°W longitude. The lake’s vastness means these coordinates serve only as a general guide. Use an atlas or a digital mapping tool like Google Maps or Bing Maps for precise details on shorelines, islands, and bordering regions.

The Significance of its Position

Lake Superior’s position is crucial to understanding its unique characteristics and role in the region’s history and economy. Its northern latitude contributes to its cold waters and lengthy ice cover during winter. Its location also dictates the types of industries and settlements that have flourished along its shores, primarily focused on shipping, mining, and tourism. The lake’s strategic position, forming a natural border between the US and Canada, has also played a vital role in international relations and trade.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lake Superior

Geography and Dimensions

FAQ 1: What are the exact dimensions of Lake Superior?

Lake Superior boasts a surface area of approximately 31,700 square miles (82,100 square kilometers). Its maximum length stretches to about 350 miles (563 kilometers), and its maximum width is around 160 miles (257 kilometers). It reaches a maximum depth of 1,333 feet (406 meters), making it the deepest of the Great Lakes. The shoreline, including islands, spans roughly 2,726 miles (4,387 kilometers).

FAQ 2: Which cities are located on the shores of Lake Superior?

Several notable cities are situated along Lake Superior’s shores, each with its own unique history and economy. In the United States, key cities include Duluth, Minnesota; Superior, Wisconsin; Ashland, Wisconsin; and Marquette, Michigan. On the Canadian side, prominent cities include Thunder Bay, Ontario; and Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. These cities have historically served as important centers for shipping, industry, and tourism.

FAQ 3: Does Lake Superior ever freeze completely?

While the nearshore areas of Lake Superior freeze significantly each winter, a complete freeze-over of the entire lake is rare. The last time Lake Superior was considered to be nearly completely frozen was in 2014. Factors such as water depth, wind patterns, and air temperatures influence the extent of ice cover each year. The deep waters retain heat, making a complete freeze a challenging occurrence.

Environment and Ecology

FAQ 4: What types of fish are found in Lake Superior?

Lake Superior is home to a diverse range of fish species, including native populations like lake trout, whitefish, walleye, and brook trout. Introduced species, such as salmon and rainbow trout, are also common. Commercial and recreational fishing are important activities on the lake, requiring careful management to maintain healthy fish populations. Invasive species, like the sea lamprey, pose a continuing threat to the native ecosystem.

FAQ 5: How is Lake Superior’s water quality?

Lake Superior generally maintains high water quality compared to other bodies of water, due in part to its cold temperatures and vast volume. However, it still faces environmental challenges. Pollution from industrial activities, agricultural runoff, and atmospheric deposition remain concerns. Ongoing efforts are in place to monitor and protect the lake’s water quality, including initiatives focused on reducing nutrient pollution and controlling invasive species.

FAQ 6: What kind of wildlife lives around Lake Superior?

The area surrounding Lake Superior is a haven for diverse wildlife. Mammals such as wolves, moose, black bears, and deer roam the forests. Birdlife includes eagles, loons, owls, and various migratory birds that rely on the lake as a stopover during their journeys. The lake sturgeon is a notable fish species, recognized for its longevity and conservation importance. Preserving this biodiversity is a critical concern for regional conservation efforts.

History and Human Impact

FAQ 7: How did Lake Superior get its name?

The name “Superior” originates from the French term “Lac Supérieur,” meaning “Upper Lake.” French explorers in the 17th century adopted this name because it was the uppermost (most northern and western) of the Great Lakes they encountered. Indigenous peoples, particularly the Ojibwe, had their own names for the lake, such as “Gichigami,” meaning “great water.”

FAQ 8: What is the history of shipping on Lake Superior?

Shipping on Lake Superior has a rich history dating back to the early fur trade. The development of iron ore mining in the region led to a surge in shipping activity, transporting raw materials to steel mills in the Great Lakes region and beyond. Major ports like Duluth and Thunder Bay became vital hubs for cargo transport. Today, the shipping industry remains a significant economic driver, carrying iron ore, grain, and other commodities.

FAQ 9: What are some famous shipwrecks in Lake Superior?

Lake Superior’s unpredictable weather and treacherous waters have claimed numerous ships throughout history. One of the most famous shipwrecks is that of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank in 1975 during a severe storm, resulting in the loss of all 29 crew members. Other notable shipwrecks include the Kamloops and the Madeira. These wrecks serve as poignant reminders of the lake’s power and the risks faced by sailors.

Recreation and Tourism

FAQ 10: What are popular recreational activities on Lake Superior?

Lake Superior offers a wide range of recreational activities. Boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are popular during the warmer months. Hiking and camping opportunities abound in the surrounding forests and parks, offering stunning views of the lake. In winter, ice fishing and snowmobiling become popular pastimes. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and numerous provincial parks attract visitors from around the world.

FAQ 11: Are there beaches on Lake Superior?

Despite its reputation for cold waters, Lake Superior does have numerous beaches. These beaches range from sandy stretches to rocky shores. Popular beaches include Park Point Beach in Duluth, Minnesota, and Miners Beach in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The best time to enjoy the beaches is during the summer months when the water is warmer and the weather is more favorable.

FAQ 12: What kind of tourism opportunities are available around Lake Superior?

Tourism around Lake Superior is diverse, catering to a wide range of interests. Historical sites, museums, and lighthouses offer insights into the region’s rich history and maritime heritage. Scenic drives along the lake’s shoreline, like the North Shore Scenic Drive in Minnesota, provide breathtaking views. Ecotourism opportunities, such as wildlife viewing and hiking, are also abundant. The region’s unique culture and stunning natural beauty make it a compelling destination for travelers.