Every year around wintertime, the question arises: Does Lake Superior freeze? Minnesota’s largest lake might be cold, with temperatures dropping to below 40 Fahrenheit during the winter season, but the answer is surprisingly complex. The length and size of the lake, plus its particular makeup, explain why the lake is not as cold as one might expect.
Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes, and stretches across two countries and eight states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan. It covers an incredible 31,700 square miles and is the largest lake in North America. It runs about 350 miles long, and average depth is nearly 500 feet – making it the deepest of the Great Lakes. It is also home to some of the coldest water temperatures.
When it comes to where the air and the water meet, Lake Superior features frozen conditions from time to time. The wind and air temperatures in the region make it possible for the edges of the lake to become hard and slick with ice. This can create some impressive ‘ice pancake’ formations that grow out from the shoreline. In winter, it is possible to find ice that goes out as far as two miles before temperature and water levels prevent it from forming further.
But that level of ice coverage is not typical. Ice usually only forms along the shoreline and near the shallower areas. But even during an average winter, ice on the entire surface of Lake Superior is a rarity. Scientists believe this is due to two factors. First, the length and deepness of the lake offer plenty of room for the coldest water to sink to the bottom where it remains stagnant. This means it is not stirred up again and so the surface waters remain just above freezing longer. Secondly, Lake Superior features relatively warmer water from the rain, snowmelt, and springs that flow into the lake, which helps keep the surface temperatures just above freezing point.
In 2014, the lake saw increased temperatures and levels of ice, often times reaching as far as twenty miles from shore. This resulted in dangerous ice conditions, with many people falling through the ice. Since then, temperatures in the lake have regularly been just above freezing and there has been less major ice coverage.
Lake Superior and Climate Change
The warming climate has had a major impact on Lake Superior and its ice coverage. Warmer air temperatures during the winter mean that temperatures in the lake remain at or just above freezing point. This makes it difficult for major ice formation to occur, even when temperatures drop. Observations by researchers also suggest that ice formation is starting later in the season and melting earlier – indicating a warmer climate.
Another factor that is contributing is the increasing number of fish species in Lake Superior. The warm current of water created by the fish also helps keep the surface water temperatures higher than usual. This effect is one of the key drivers of the changes to ice coverage, and can explain why the lake is usually not entirely frozen over.
Despite the fact that Lake Superior is not freezing over, this does not mean the lake is becoming overly warm. Instead, temperatures are rising only slightly, but nonetheless having a major impact on ice formation. This makes Lake Superior an ideal testing ground for researchers who want to see the effects of climate change first-hand.
The Impact of Ice on the Environment
While Lake Superior might not be entirely frozen, the ice that forms on the lake still has an ecological impact. The ice affects currents and the seasonal overturn of the lake, which happens when the upper layer of cold, fresh water sinks towards the bottom and pushes the warmer, salty water upwards. This process is important for maintaining the balance of the lake and its overall health.
The ice also serves as a medium for nutrients that support the lake environment. Nutrients get carried in from rivers and streams and are necessary for organisms and plants to survive. The lake’s marshy environment is supported by the ice’s ability to act as a natural buffer in controlling the growth of aquatic plants.
Finally, the ice is important for the local wildlife. Many animals rely on the ice for food and protection, and the presence of ice allows them to migrate and find food more easily. By monitoring the presence of ice on the lake, wildlife experts can better understand the impact of climate change and plan conservation measures accordingly.
The Tourist Attraction of Ice on Lake Superior
Ice on Lake Superior is also a popular tourist attraction. Every winter, hundreds of visitors flock to the shorelines to observe the formations up close. It is common for photographers to capture amazing shots of ‘ice art’ created by the various formations. Photographers snap pictures of everything from jagged snowscapes to grand sculptures of melting snow.
Visitors also come to behold the impressive ice sheets that form along the shorelines, which can stretch for miles and cover large swaths of the lake. Even during milder winters, visitors can find incredible sights near the lake which are worth experiencing up close.
Ice on Lake Superior offers an amazing opportunity for tourists, photographers, and wildlife experts alike. But despite the spectacular visual wonders that the lake’s ice often offers, the lake remains relatively unfrozen. Long stretches of open water are common, with patches of ice appearing here and there.
Safety Considerations Around the Ice
Given the potential dangers of ice near and on the lake, it is important to take certain safety measures. Even when the waters appear frozen and safe, authorities advise against venturing too far out on the ice as there may still be weak spots or patches of open water. Experts also recommend against setting up tents on the ice due to the potential of the breaking underneath your gear.
Take special care when venturing from the shoreline out to the ice. If you do decide to take a walk on the Thick Ice, authorities suggest that you take special care to stay out of currents, ensure that the ice is thick enough for your activities and plan a route before hand so you don’t get lost.
By observing proper safety guidelines, you can enjoy and observe the beautiful sights of ice on Lake Superior without putting yourself at risk.
Natural Artworks
The ice formations on Lake Superior are a breathtaking reminder of the natural power of snow and ice. While it’s uncommon to find a complete ice coverage on the lake, curious onlookers can still find incredible natural artworks made of snow and sculpted by the weather and winds along the shorelines.
From ice pillows, pancakes and ridges to incredible sculptures and expansive views, visitors can marvel at the sheer power of cold weather and its ability to create amazing artworks that surprise and delight.
The freezing temperatures of Lake Superior can create a hypnotic, peaceful atmosphere for those who take the time to witness it. The sights along the shoreline beckon visitors to explore the beauty of the winter weather and the power of nature.
Lake Superior’s Incredible Beauty
Though it rarely freezes over, Lake Superior still lives up to its name in winter. Even without complete ice coverage the lake can offer an incredible beauty, with views that are rivaled by few others. Whether you’re watching snowfall over the surface of the lake or walking on the nearby shoreline, the stillness and calmness of the scene will take your breath away.
On a clear January night, one’s eyes can feast on the reflection of the moon and stars on a sheet of pristine, glimmering ice. It is moments like this that can truly bring home the unique beauty of winter, and appreciate the raw, untouched beauty of Lake Superior.
It is not often that you get a chance to witness the wonders of nature up close and personal, but Lake Superior in winter presents the perfect opportunity.
The Booms and Busts of Ice Fishing
Lake Superior is known as a popular destination for ice fishing, with anglers coming from around the country to take advantage of the ample fishing opportunity. But while ice fishing can be a great experience, determining the right time to go can be a little tricky.
Lake Superior is large and its waters are constantly in flux. This means that certain areas can be dangerous to venture onto when ice fishing, due to the presence of weak ice or acidic waters. In order to ensure the safety of the anglers and the long-term sustainability of the lake, local authorities monitor ice formation and forecast the best times for anglers to go.
There are also occasional ‘booms’ in the fishing activity, when the lake experiences an unexpected temperature drop and offers a wider window for ice anglers. Such booms often happen when the lake receives an unexpected dose of cold air, making the upper layers of the water to freeze over. These short-lived opportunities create a frenzy of activity among anglers and give them a chance to enjoy an extra few weeks of fishing.
Ice fishing can be a unique experience that gives anglers the opportunity to cast in some of the most pristine lakes in the world. But it is also important to be mindful of the long-term health of the lake, and follow the advice of local authorities to ensure all ice fishermen are able to enjoy the lake safely.
