Copyright: - US Army Corps of Engineers
Sturgeon Bay And Lake Michigan Ship Canal
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Description - Located in the popular vacation area of Door County, the scenic Sturgeon Bay And Lake Michigan Ship Canal originated as a profit making private enterprise during the late 19th century. Development of the region included several lighthouses constructed to guide ships into the canal's entrance thus avoiding the dangerous "Death's Door" passage around Door Peninsula. As a shortcut for vessels using the ports of Green Bay and Menominee, the first lighthouse was erected in 1882. The federal government purchased the canal in 1893 placing it under the direction of the US Corps of Engineers. By 1915 the government placed the life saving services under the administration of the U.S. Coast Guard where it remains today. Known for its world-class fishing, massive rock outcropping and protected bays and harbors, the Sturgeon Bay And Lake Michigan Ship Canal spans from Lake Michigan to Green Bay. The area is one of Wisconsin's most picturesque vacation lands serving as an enchanting getaway that features fine dining, art galleries, museums, gift shops, and waterfront lodging. Waterfront walkways and sail-up businesses enrich the historic maritime canal.
Attractions
- The Sturgeon Bay And Lake Michigan Ship Canal lends itself to a variety of recreations. Shorelines characterized by rock outcroppings, protected bays and harbors, and varying canal depths make it enjoyable for small one-person crafts to huge Great Lakes shipping vessels. Eluded by strong winds the canal is a world-renowned fishery for smallmouth bass, northern pike, perch and trout. Access to the lighthouse is prohibited. USACE acreage along the northern side of the canal offers parking, hiking and fishing access.
Recreation - Fishing, hiking, and touring are the primary recreations enjoyed at the USACE site. Pets permitted. Climate - Northeast Wisconsin has four distinct seasons with warm summers and long winters. Great Lakes Michigan and Superior tend to make summers cooler and winters milder close to shore. January's average temperature is in the teens F (-teens C). Average July temperature is 68-70 degrees F (20 degrees C). During summer, temperatures can climb to above 90 degrees F (32 degrees C) for a several day stretch. The area's average yearly precipitation ranges from 30-32". Annual snowfalls in the Northeast Region have a wide range; the southern areas may receive 50" while the northern areas may receive in excess of 180". Nighttime summer temperatures can dip below freezing. Dressing in layers is a good way to remain comfortable in Wisconsin. Location -
The Sturgeon Bay And Lake Michigan Ship Canal is located in the northeast portion of Wisconsin in the middle of Door County peninsula. From Milwaukee travel north on US 141 to Manitowoc. Proceed north on WI 42 to Sturgeon Bay. Turn right onto Memorial Drive.
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