You’ll see signs for Scenic Byways or All-American Roads on the Ride Lake Superior route. Did you know there are 184 distinct and diverse roads designated National Scenic Byways or All-American Roads in the United States? In Canada, we don’t have these road distinctions, so in this blog, we’re going to explain these scenic byways and roads.
To begin with, a National Scenic Byway has met one of the following intrinsic qualities: archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic. These features are recognized throughout the area and considered regionally significant.
On the other hand, an All-American Road means that a byway has at least two intrinsic qualities that make national significance and basically, has a one-of-a-kind feature that doesn’t exist anywhere else. Essentially, the road is a “destination unto itself.”
You can learn more from the Federal Highway Administration by clicking here.
National Scenic Byways On The Ride Lake Superior Route
Whitefish Bay National Forest Scenic Byway – Michigan (27 mi / 43 km)
The Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway is the first you’ll take on the Ride Lake Superior route if you’ve started the journey from Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Following the shores of Lake Superior, through the Hiawatha National Forest, you’ll see cedar and white pines, and the sandy beaches of Whitefish Bay. Make time to stop at the Point Iroquois Lighthouse that marks the division between Whitefish Bay and the St. Marys River. Whitefish Bay is also known as the graveyard of the Great Lakes. The scenic byway ends just outside Paradise, Michigan. We recommend you drive another 15 minutes to Tahquamenon Falls, the state’s second-largest state park. The falls are said to have inspired Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s “The Song of Hiawatha”.
Copper Country Trail – Michigan (47 mi / 75 km)
Firstly, the Copper Country Trail is located in the Keweenaw Peninsula from South Range to Copper Harbor. This is a section of Ride Lake Superior that we insist you not miss! This area is known as copper country because the region produced over 10 billion pounds of copper during the historic mining boom. Today, the towns and many local businesses that began during the mining boom still thrive. For instance, you can visit the Copper Range Historical Museum or the Coppertown Mining Museum to learn about the area’s history. Additionally, the Eagle Harbor Lighthouse Station, which guided ships bearing ore through the waters of Lake Superior, is a must-see. While there, dine at the Michigan House Cafe & Red Jacket Brewing Co., which opened around 1895. Lastly, stop by the Keweenaw Visitor Centre for visitor information.
Wisconsin Lake Superior Scenic Byway – Wisconsin (70 mi / 112 km)
Similarly, the Wisconsin Lake Superior Scenic Byway takes you along the beautiful shoreline of the big lake. The route begins near Ashland at the Whittlesey Creek National Wildlife Refuge and ends at the Brule River State Forest. In this region, there are numerous natural features to enjoy. For example, you can take the Apostle Islands Cruises for one-day lighthouse tours or stop at the historic Ehlers General Store in Cornucopia. Moreover, take the Madeline Island Ferry Line to cruise around this island in Lake Superior for concerts, history, and great eats. Finally, visit the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center for information services, the heritage and history of the area, and enjoy the 5-story high observation tower and deck.
All-American Road On The Ride Lake Superior Route
North Shore Scenic Drive – Minnesota (154 mi / 247 km)
Following the shoreline of Lake Superior, the North Shore Scenic Drive through Minnesota offers spectacular views of the landscape and lake. The route takes you through 8 state parks and the Superior National Forest. Along the way, there are several noteworthy stops. For instance, you can visit the 80-foot-high Enger Tower, which is 450 feet above Lake Superior. Additionally, stop at Gooseberry Falls State Park to check out the waterfall. Experience the historic Split Rock Lighthouse, and don’t forget to stop for a World’s Best Donuts. Furthermore, see Father Baraga’s Cross at the Cross River. Known as the “Snowshoe Priest,” he built a wooden cross at the river to say “thank you” to the Lord after a treacherous ride on Lake Superior by canoe.
From the copper-rich history of Michigan’s Copper Country Trail to the breathtaking views along Wisconsin’s Lake Superior Scenic Byway, and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive, each road promises unique experiences and memories.
