The Tower

A view not many people get to see.  The control tower of the Soo Locks.

A few interesting facts about the control tower.  It's about 5-6 stories up.  We had to climb up all those stairs because the elevator only fits 2 people at one time.  The elevator is located in the original chimney stack (that is way it is so small).  There is only two people that work in the tower during their 12 hour shifts.  There is a very small "kitchenette" for them to use for preparing meals.  And, since every room has to have two ways out in case of a fire, they have harnesses to repel down the outside of the tower (as of our tour, no one had gotten up the courage to try that form of escape).

Here is the view looking downbound.... towards our campground.

Here is one that Jilli took.

It was gorgeous up there.  What an amazing view of not only the locks but Canada and the surrounding area.  

I know you are all thinking.... Two people up in a tower for 12 hours... they have a little kitchenette for keeping their food cool and preparation, what happens when they eat, and that food and drink start moving in a downward pattern?  Good question...  our kids asked that question too!!  So on our way back down all those stairs, Mike showed us a little stairway tucked around the corner a half-flight down from the control room.

The bathroom is located just around the corner from Jilli, and it is as small as the staircase to get there.  

Well, there you go, a quick glimpse inside the Soo Locks Control Tower!