Does Lake Superior Connect to the Ocean?
Lake Superior, often referred to as the “Great Lake,” is the largest and northernmost of the five Great Lakes in North America. Covering an area of about 31,700 square miles, it is a massive body of freshwater. However, the question of whether Lake Superior connects to the ocean has intrigued many. Let’s delve into this topic and explore the fascinating connection between this great lake and the vast ocean beyond.
Lake Superior does not directly connect to the ocean. Instead, it is connected to the Atlantic Ocean through a series of rivers and canals. The primary connection is made through the St. Lawrence River, which flows into the Gulf of St. Lawrence and eventually empties into the Atlantic Ocean. This connection is approximately 3,000 miles away from Lake Superior.
The journey begins with the St. Mary’s River, which flows out of Lake Superior and into Lake Huron. From there, the water moves through the Straits of Mackinac, connecting Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. After passing through the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, the water enters the St. Lawrence River.
The St. Lawrence River is a significant waterway, stretching over 3,058 kilometers (1,900 miles) from Lake Superior to the Atlantic Ocean. It is the largest river in North America by volume, discharging about 14,000 cubic meters of water per second into the ocean. The river’s vast size and length contribute to the impressive journey of Lake Superior’s water to the ocean.
The St. Lawrence Seaway, a series of canals and locks, plays a crucial role in connecting Lake Superior to the ocean. The seaway was completed in 1959 and allows ships to travel between the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. This has greatly facilitated trade and transportation between North America and Europe.
While Lake Superior does not directly connect to the ocean, the connection through the St. Lawrence River and the St. Lawrence Seaway has had a profound impact on the region. It has allowed for the transportation of goods, enhanced economic growth, and has become a vital part of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River System.
In conclusion, Lake Superior does not connect directly to the ocean. However, through the St. Lawrence River and the St. Lawrence Seaway, the vast body of freshwater in Lake Superior finds its way to the Atlantic Ocean. This connection is not only fascinating but also plays a significant role in the region’s economy and trade.
