Lake Superior: 'God-like and humbling'

Lake Superior
Lake Superior
William Lager | MPR News

Superior has made the top eight in our most-loved lake contest. See all the finalists and cast your vote here.

The 3 quadrillion gallons of water contained in Lake Superior inspire all kinds of feelings in Minnesotans.

"It's god-like and humbling. The range of emotions in this lake go from peace to awe to terror. Lake Superior has a spiritual presence that is restorative, and a beauty beyond words. It's a touchstone for my life, built from experiences kayaking, sailing, watching and listening in all seasons," Lyndon Torstenson told MPR News via its Public Insight Network, or PIN.

Fisherman's cabin on Lake Superior, circa 1922.
Fisherman's cabin on Lake Superior, circa 1922.
Minnesota Historical Society

From Duluth to Grand Portage, the 189 miles of shoreline belonging to Minnesota is full of vacation spots, trails, beaches, climbing, shipping ports and forests.

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The beauty and majesty of Lake Superior draw me in at first glimpse as my husband and I approach the crest of the 35W hill overlooking the harbor. On a warm summer day a calm Superior literally sparkles and in November it shows off its power and fury.

Forty-two years ago, we circled Superior on our honeymoon. We have returned again and again to listen to the rhythm of waves and reconnect with Nature and each other.

— Elizabeth Isaacson via PIN

As far as we know, Superior is the only lake who has weighed in personally on our most-loved lake voting, too.

Tell MPR News and the Water Main: What makes your lake special?