winter lake activities Archives

Ice Fishing Guide: Gear and Equipment

Posted on January 27, 2023January 26, 2023 Lacey Spear

Fish on ice next to hole with fishing line in it during an ice fishing endeavor. — Photo Courtesy of Modern Farmer

It’s no surprise that Northern residents and visitors flock to their frozen lakes to go ice fishing. A beginner-friendly sport, ice fishing makes for a fun family outing. Plus, it’s true that fish caught from frozen lakes taste better due to the lack of algae.

In previous Lake Homes Lifestyle articles, we detailed top ice fishing tips for beginners and discussed the best lakes in the United States for ice fishing. So now you know the basics and where to go to try out your new skills. But what items do you need to get started? Well, unlike standard fishing, ice fishing requires more than a rod, reel, and bait. You won’t have much luck casting your line into frozen water without the appropriate tools to cut through the ice. But no need to worry—our ice fishing guide will give you everything you need to get started.

Ice Auger

Man drilling a hole into the ice with an auger and pictured in front of a gorgeous sunset. — Photo Courtesy of North Dakota Tourism

If you want to get into ice fishing, buying an auger is the first step. Since the ice thickness can range from a couple to a dozen inches, you want to make sure you can access the water and fish underneath. You’ll also have to decide which auger to buy. A motorized auger is on the pricier side, but it will save you a lot of time and energy compared to a hand auger—especially if you want to drill multiple holes. The size auger you buy also depends on the fish species you want to catch. For example, panfish usually require a 4.5-6 inch auger, whereas walleye would need a 6-8 inch hole.

Rod and Reel or Tip-Ups

A tip-ups---a device used to catch fish in ice fishing---over the hole with a sunset in the background. — Photo Courtesy of Beaver Dam Ice Fishing on Facebook

After you drill your hole, you have two primary options for reeling in fresh walleye, perch, panfish, pike, and other popular ice fishing species. On the one hand, you could go for the more traditional choice and use a rod and reel. If so, keep in mind that you won’t need the same length you would for warmer fishing endeavors, as you will simply drop the line down into the hole rather than casting it. Most anglers report that their ideal choice is a 28″ medium power rod with a size 20 spinning reel. They pair this with a six-pound fluorocarbon ice line.

However, on the other hand, if you want to give yourself the advantage of being in two places at once, you should go with a tip-up. This device allows you to set bait for multiple species at the same time. Plus, you can step away from the fishing hole for a moment and not worry about missing out on the action. The flag will notify you when your bait has attracted your prize catch!

Jigs and Spikes

A panfish with a jig in its mouth positioned on the ice next to a fishing hole. — Photo Courtesy of In-Fisherman

Now onto what seals the deal and gets the fish on your plate—the bait. The perfect ice fishing bait combination starts with a few Tungsten jigs and a couple dozen Spikes (also referred to as Maggots). You can use a Clinch Knot with your Fluorocarbon line to secure the bait. Around 2-3 Spikes hooked through the middle or the tail will set you up for success. Also—even though the process may seem gross—gently pinching the Spikes to expose some of their insides will strengthen their smell and get you more bites. For more jig types and an ice fishing guide, check out this kit.

Bucket and Shelter

Now you’ve drilled your hole and set up your bait, and you’re waiting to get a bite from that trophy fish. Sometimes, the bite comes immediately, and other times, you have to wait a while. Either way, you want to be comfortable in the meantime. That’s why a bucket and some form of shelter—usually a tent—are integral to creating an ideal ice fishing environment. Without them, it would be hard to stay out on the ice for hours. Plus, since many ice fishing trips often turn into a sort of tailgating experience, you want to make sure you’ll have somewhere to relax.

Sled and Tarp Straps

A sled with tarp straps on top of a frozen lake with trees and a sunset in the background. — Photo Courtesy of Take Me Fishing

If you already have a large recreational sled, you can easily use it for your ice fishing ventures. However, if you have yet to purchase a sled, you will have the most success with a 4-5 ft. long sled ranging 2-3 ft. wide and one ft. deep. This size sled will easily navigate the ice and also provide plenty of room for your equipment. Additionally, you will want to purchase tarp straps to secure your items. We recommend rubber straps, so your fishing hooks won’t get stuck in them.

Metal Cleats and Safety Picks

Red and brown metal cleats made for walking on frozen lakes. — Photo Courtesy of New York Times

The last components of the ice fishing guide, metal cleats and safety picks will keep you safe while on the ice. Metal cleats prevent you from slipping and increase your overall mobility. However, if you do fall, safety picks will keep you secure. Wrapped around the shoulders, these corded picks enhance your ability to climb out on the water and get back on the ice.

Now you have everything you need for your winter ice fishing adventures. So now, get the whole family together and get ready to have some freezing good times!

Canine Adventure: Dogsledding Across a Winter Lake Landscape

Posted on January 13, 2023January 10, 2023 Steve Millburg

Photography courtesy of Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge

Gliding in near silence across a snow-covered frozen lake, the frosty air sharpening your senses, you feel something happening. Something wonderful.

You’ve started picking up the moods of the dogs pulling your sled – even, you could swear, reading their minds. You talk to them, thanking them, praising their hard work. They respond by picking up the pace a bit, waving their feathery tails a little more proudly.

You have truly become a team, human and canine. It feels exhilarating. And humbling. You want this ride to go on forever.

“Dogsledding is a team sport,” said Paul Schurke, owner of Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge in Ely, Minnesota. “The more engaged you are with the dogs and the sled, the more responsive the dogs are.”

It’s an experience all too rare these days: connecting deeply with the natural world. You can try it for yourself from roughly December through March at several lakeside or near-lake outfitters.

Who’s the Boss?

Driving a sled – or mushing, if you prefer the old-school term – is surprisingly active. You shift your weight to lean into turns. You feather the brake on downhill stretches, so the sled doesn’t run into the dogs. You jump off to push while climbing snowdrifts and steep hills.

You learn that you are not the boss. You’re more like a coach. You can encourage the dogs to do what you want. You can’t make them.

“We have to remind people that these are not snowmobiles with fur,” Schurke said. “They’re very unique individuals, all with their very distinct personalities, quirks, and idiosyncrasies.

“Dogs live to serve people. They’re a remarkably unique animal that way. So they’re extremely responsive to the rapport that our guests establish with them.” The guides encourage guest mushers to play with their dogs during stoppages on the trail and to praise them while underway. The dogs understand the tone of voice if not the words.

More than Just Sledding

Wintergreen is on White Iron Lake in northeast Minnesota. It has offered dogsledding trips since 1979. The dogs romp along 60 miles of trails that often cross rivers and lakes (solidly frozen with two to four feet of ice). Wintergreen also uses nearby trails in the lake-dotted, million-acre Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which stretches along the Canadian border.

Many of the lodge’s custom sleds feature wide platforms located in the back spanning the sled’s runners. Two adult co-drivers can stand side by side. “They’re designed to accommodate people of all ages and all levels of physical activity,” Schurke said.

Trips range in duration from a few hours to a few days. Except during camping trips, you’ll stay overnight in a cozy wooden lakeside lodge or cabin. You’ll eat very well. “We’ve been famous for our food service for a long time,” Schurke said.

Wintergreen also offers specialty trips to keep things fresh for the more than 50% of guests who are repeat customers. They might involve special parent-child or grandparent-child activities, a writing workshop, even yoga or cooking classes.

Layne Kennedy leads photography workshops. Kennedy is a Minneapolis-based freelancer whose work has appeared in such magazines as Outside, Smithsonian, and National Geographic Traveler. Most of the photos on the lodge website are his.

The Star of the Show

But of course, the main attractions have four legs, dense fur, and tails that curve forward over their backs. Most dogsled outfitters use Alaskan or Siberian huskies – lean, fast athletes who can pull all day at an effortless lope. Wintergreen reaches back further in the canine lineage to one of the oldest dog breeds in existence: the Canadian Eskimo dog, also known as the Canadian Inuit dog.

They’re stockier than huskies, slower but stronger pullers, and extroverted, people-loving sweethearts. For centuries, they and humans worked in partnership to survive in the Arctic. Then technology supplanted them in the form of snowmobiles. Early in the 21st century, the population dwindled to an estimated 300 dogs.

Wintergreen, with 65 Canadian Eskimo dogs, is helping to reinvigorate the breed. Each dog has its own insulated house, although most prefer curling up outside in the snow no matter how frigid the temperature is.

They LOVE to pull. At 8 months of age, they’re ready for the sled. They take to it instinctively, with no training. Schurke said his dogs sometimes even pick a sled over their food bowl. “When we walk down to the kennel with harnesses in hand, they’re all screaming and jumping, saying, ‘Pick me! Pick me!’”

On the last day of a trip, Schurke said, almost all guests pay a final visit to their BFFs (best furry friends). “They’re down there loving on every dog in the kennel. Tears are flowing down their faces, and they’re anxious to come back and enjoy another experience.”

Dogsledding Trails to Explore

Want to plan a dogsledding trip? Here are some other places to drive a dogsled.

Base Camp Bigfork of Bigfork, Montana, near Flathead Lake, offers half-day, full-day, and overnight camping trips. It also rents snowshoes and cross-country skis and, in warmer months, kayaks, paddleboards, and mountain bikes.
Husky Haven Sled Dogs of Shingleton, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is on Nugent Lake and about six miles from Lake Superior. It offers three- to four-hour dogsled tours, plus utility terrain vehicle and helicopter tours.
Wolfsong Adventures in Mushing of Bayfield, Wisconsin, near Lake Superior, offers dogsled trips of two and a half to three and a half hours.

In the village of Lake Placid, New York, mushers set up along Main Street and offer dogsled rides across the ice of Mirror Lake in the middle of town. You don’t get to drive, but at least you get a taste of the experience.

Polar Plunge Events 2023

Posted on December 9, 2022November 11, 2022 Lacey Spear

4 persons dressed in Hawaiian outfits jumping into a freezing lake for a polar plunge. — Photo Courtesy of Youtube | Anchorage Daily News

Contributing Author: Lauren Chandler

Remember the days of the ice bucket challenge back in 2015? Celebrities, athletes, and CEOs dumped ice on themselves in increasingly creative ways to promote awareness of the disease ALS. The challenge took over social media, with famous names like Barack Obama, “Weird Al” Yankovic, and Justin Bieber participating. But now, the ice bucket is out, and the Polar Plunge is in!

First performed in Boston in 1904, this long-standing tradition has become a fundraising effort for various charities like the Special Olympics and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Polar Plunges are a great way to support causes while having loads of fun with your family and friends. So this winter, join thousands around the world by grabbing your most creative costume and jumping in your favorite freezing lake!

Lake Martin, Alabama

Lake Martin's winter event where people jump in the lake to support the protection of the waters and habitat. Picture is an aerial shot of people running into water. — Photo Courtesy of Lake Martin Wave

Located in central Alabama, Lake Martin hosts a milder polar plunge compared to many Northern lakes. Here, adventurous lake lovers can take the plunge far away from the frigid waters of the north. Situated on the Western side of the lake, Kowaliga Restaurant hosts the event every year to raise money for the protection of the lake. They craft a special polar plunge menu showcasing Alabama’s best hot comfort food. Last year, over 200 flocked to Lake Martin to take the plunge, so expect a crowd on January 15!

Lake Nokomis, Minnesota

Polar plunge in Minnesota, featuring many people jumping into the lake with an inflatable polar bear behind them. — Photo Courtesy of AllEvents.in

For 16 years, Minneapolis has organized a Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Minnesota. In the course of those 16 years, the Minneapolis plunge has attracted more than 50,000 people and raised over $15 million. On March 4, Lake Nokomis will host the event and expects it to be Minneapolis’s largest polar plunge yet. Featuring live music and food trucks, this two-day event is a fun winter activity for the whole family!

Lake Ontario, New York

People running through cold Lake Ontario with ice in the backyard and paramedics present to ensure their safety. — Photo Courtesy of Democrat & Chronicle

Lake Ontario in Rochester sees the largest polar plunge in New York State every year. Last year, participants consolidated over $200,000 to support Special Olympics New York. On February 5, plungers can participate in teams or as individuals, and there are amazing prizes for those who raise the most money.

The polar plunge coincides with the Lakeside Winter Celebration—a local favorite featuring a wine and craft beer festival, contests, live music, and sleigh rides. So, it’s a great alternative if jumping into freezing water is not your speed. You can still make a donation to the plunge, grab a beer, and watch the festivities from dry land.

Lake St. Louis, Missouri

People getting ready to jump in the cold St. Louis lake to support Special Olympics Missouri, including a girl dressed up like the Statue of Liberty. — Photo Courtesy of Special Olympics Missouri

Last year the polar plunge at Lake St. Louis in Missouri raised over $70,000 for Special Olympics Missouri, making it possible for children with mental disabilities to pursue the sports that bring them joy.

Known for its increasingly bizarre costumes, teams participating love to dress up as polar bears, superheroes, Disney princesses, clowns, cowboys, and more! This polar plunge on February 4 is perfect for families who want to have a blast while supporting an amazing organization.

Lake Sammamish, Washington

Man standing in Lake Sammamish dressed up in an Incredibles costume with children in the background, all taking part in the polar plunge. — Photo Courtesy of Patch.com

Are you a cold-weather enthusiast who loves the environment? Then the polar plunge in Lake Sammamish, Washington, is perfect for you! The Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park host this event to support the protection of the land and water habitats.

The first 180 people to arrive at the lake on January 1 will receive a Polar Plunge souvenir campfire mug, hand warmer, and a coupon for a cup of Ivar’s clam chowder. So take the plunge for the clam chowder, or take it for charity; we won’t judge either way!

Whether you attend these polar plunge events as a local or an adventure-seeker, you can connect with lake communities and support America’s most beloved charities.

Best Winter Lake Vacation Destinations

Posted on November 8, 2022December 15, 2022 Lacey Spear

Split Rock Lighthouse, Minnesota pictured next to a snowy frozen lake and a pink sunset. — Photo Courtesy of iStock | Posnov

So far in our vacation destination series, we have covered the best lakes for relaxation, outdoor enthusiasts, and shopaholics. But now, as sunny rays give way to snowflake days, it’s time to talk about the best winter lake vacation destinations. These top locations not only provide stunning snowy views but also host winter festivals and offer various outdoor activities. So get the family together, grab your coziest coat, and get ready to begin your unforgettable winter adventure!

Lake Superior, Minnesota/Michigan/Wisconsin

Since Lake Superior touches three states—Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin—it offers an incredibly wide range of winter lake activities. However, if you had to choose only a few things to do, the sandstone caves at Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands should be at the top of the list. Showcasing picturesque frozen waterfalls and streams, the area is a true winter wonderland. Then, after you soak in these views, you can attend the famous Ice Festival, featuring kids’ activities, ice sculptures, MIRA Ice Racing, fireworks, and a snow slide. Or, if you happen to be on the Michigan side of the lake, you can hop over to Marquette, which hosts major skiing events and a dog sled race in January.

Lake Morey, Vermont

Ice sculpture of several roses in a vase on Lake Morey in Vermont. — Photo Courtesy of Only In Your State

Unlike Lake Superior, Lake Morey is relatively low profile. So, it’s the ideal lake for relaxing and getting away from the fast pace of city life. Moreover, Lake Morey is a wintry paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of family-friendly adventures and activities. If you’re feeling gutsy, you can skate the entire length of the 4.5-mile lake, or you can conquer the longest Nordic skating trail in the nation. Other fun winter activities include the Holiday Market, pond hockey, and sledding. And perhaps the pinnacle of winter on Lake Morey, the beloved Carnival weekend features night skating, entertainment, snow sculpture contests, lakeside dining, and more.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Ice castles lit up by red, green, blue, and purple lights situated on Lake Geneva in Wisconsin. — Photo Courtesy of Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Lake Geneva may be far from Switzerland, but its views rival Europe. To soak in this scenery, hikers can take a brisk winter walk along the 23-mile shoreline path. Additionally, Lake Geneva’s January Winterfest is an iconic event, attracting travelers from all across the nation. Visitors can view incredible ice sculptures at the National Snow Sculpting Championship and visit the eccentric ice caves on the lake. Moreover, if they enjoy winter sports, they can go sledding, ice fishing, or ziplining. Lake Geneva also offers many relaxing activities, such as indoor igloo dining and stellar spas.

Maroon Lake, Colorado

Photo Courtesy of David Krause via The Aspen Times

Situated ten miles from Aspen, Maroon Lake features idyllic winter landscapes. Reflecting the 14,000-foot snowy peaks above, the lake is the perfect place to capture a seasonal family photo. Although Maroon Lake is not accessible via roadways during the winter, visitors can ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile to the area. Additionally, nearby Aspen provides plenty of opportunities to get into the winter spirit. The Breathtaker Alpine Coaster winds through the forests and can go up to 28 miles per hour. Individuals can control their own cars along the track, granting them the sensation of skiing without the exertion or risk. Aspen also offers tranquil hiking tours and dogsledding endeavors.

Lake Chelan, Washington

Winterfest at Lake Chelan, featuring a cozy snowy town and fireworks over the lake. — Photo Courtesy of Only In Your State

If a snow globe came to life, it would be winter at Lake Chelan. With the Northern Cascade Mountains as its magnificent backdrop and crisp glacier-fed waters, the lake features Washington’s finest winter views. Only nine miles from downtown Chelan, Echo Valley showcases 70 acres of terrain and offers snow tubing, skiing, snowboarding, and x-country runs. Additionally, Lake Chelan’s Winterfest is an unparalleled seasonal attraction. Featuring remarkable ice sculptures, impressive fireworks, the infamous ice bar, sledding, and live music, Winterfest will transform your vacation into an unforgettable experience.

Now you know about the best winter lake vacation destinations. So don’t just stand there frozen—go out and have the snowy getaway of your dreams!

Wetsuits for Lake Swimming

Posted on September 13, 2022January 26, 2023 Camille Smith

When going swimming at the lake, swimsuits are typically the most popular attire. You may associate wetsuits with ocean water, however, did you know that wetsuits can be used in any body of water? According to the National Geographic Society, the primary purpose of wetsuits is to retain body heat for the swimmers. Essentially, they act as a second skin to insulate your actual skin. As such, they’re perfect for swimming in water temperatures below 65 degrees. With a proper wetsuit, summer doesn’t have to be the only time you enjoy immersing yourself in lake water. Today, we’re reviewing top wetsuits for men and women! Let’s dive in (pun intended).

What to Look For

There are a few key personal factors to think about before buying a wetsuit. First off, there’s the cut and thickness. While looking at options, you’ll likely be deciding among full cut, sleeveless, or short cut. The thickness of the material may range from 1 and 5 millimeters. These decisions largely depend on your lake’s climate. For instance, those living on Lake Michigan or another northern region may opt for a full cut (long-sleeved) wetsuit with higher thickness for maximum warmth, while folks on Lake Austin or a similarly warm climate may choose a sleeveless or short cut with thinner material. These factors will also help determine the wetsuit’s buoyancy.

Another consideration is mobility. If your goal is to explore the lake waters at length, you’ll want to find a stretchy neoprene material and pick a cut that allows your shoulders to move freely. Typically wetsuits designed for open water swimming are made of stretchy, flexible material (especially compared to traditional wetsuits designed for surfing). However, an important distinction is flexibility and snugness. While you want some degree of movement, you don’t want a loose fit! Otherwise, bagginess could cause cold water to rush into the wetsuit (an occurrence called flushing). Keeping these considerations in mind, let’s take a look at some specific recommendations.

Zone3 Aspire

The Zone3 Aspire is a highly rated wetsuit for open-water swimming. In fact, it’s been rated 10/10 by both 220 Magazine and Triathlete Europe. Great for both professionals and beginners, this suit is known for its flexibility, buoyancy, and laser-cut collar design which allows for neck comfort. The thickness of 1.5mm allows for a comfortable amount of stretch, improving endurance and swimming speed.

TYR Hurricane Cat 1

On the lower end of the price spectrum, compared to other high-end wetsuits, the TYR Hurricane Cat 1 is a great choice. Very popular, it’s ideal for racing and training, as well as recreation. Rest assured you won’t have to buy a new wetsuit anytime soon with this choice. It’s coated for added durability, while also featuring an abrasion-resistant design. The 100% slick skin neoprene coating achieves the perfect balance of lightweight comfort and warm insulation.

Openwater Core Hi-Vis Wetsuit

With this Openwater Core wetsuit, you’ll stay safe while swimming in open water. The orange panels are designed for maximum visibility, so you’ll remain easily identified in the open lake water. Plus, the neoprene material, between 2 and 2.5mm, provides both comfort and flexible movement. The cloth maintains body heat for longer periods of time, allowing you to stay warm in colder water. The icing on the cake – it’s made from eco-friendly materials for the health of both you and the lake environment.

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Wetsuit

The Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Wetsuit is a great, low-price wetsuit that’s perfect for slightly warmer water. Although its original intent is for surfing, it can also be used for lake watersports such as waterskiing. Made with E5 neoprene, its durable fabric is high-performing and made to last. Plus, it comes with an internal key pocket so you can keep small valuables safe while you’re on the water.

3/2 Synergy Back Zip Wetsuit

This well-made wetsuit from the brand Billabong is another lower-price wetsuit that offers durable and strong material, as well as thermal retention. It’s made with a silicon stretch interior lining, which enhances the wetsuit’s strength without sacrificing the lightweight feature. Plus, it’s made out of 100% recycled exterior fabric, perfect for contributing to the sustainable clothing movement.

When it’s cold outside at your lakehouse, these wetsuits will allow you to just keep swimming!

Popular Polar Plunges in Lake Areas

Posted on December 16, 2021January 8, 2022 Camille Smith

Photo courtesy of Dolly G Photography via Boston Magazine

In the middle of winter, the last activity on most of our minds is diving headfirst into a freezing lake. However, thousands of people do it every year. If you aren’t familiar, a polar plunge is a winter event in which a crowd of people jumps into a cold body of water. Typically, polar plunges take place to benefit a charity of some kind, such as the Special Olympics. Beginning in 1904 with the first recorded polar plunge in Boston, these events have been popular for over 100 years. In 2021, there’s no sign that the enthusiasm is dying down. Check out these upcoming polar plunges in our lake areas!

Lake George Polar Plunge

Looking for a unique way to ring in the new year? Start off 2022 with the Lake George Polar Plunge. For this annual tradition, over a thousand people gather at Shepard Park Beach and dive into the freezing New York waters of Lake George. Due to the northern climate, in some years, there’s been a thin layer of ice that participants need to swim through. Be sure to bring your own towel and fresh set of warm clothes!

Chicago Polar Plunge

Chicago is known for its thriving comedy scene, deep dish pizza, and loyal sports fans. But one of its main features is the incomparable Lake Michigan. On March 6th, 2022, this city will host its annual Chicago Polar Plunge where brave plungers will dive into the cold Lake Michigan waters to support the thousands of Special Olympians who compete each year in the city. In past years, celebrities like Jimmy Fallon and Lady Gaga have taken the plunge here too!

Lake of the Ozarks Polar Plunge

Although Lake of the Ozarks is most famous for Party Cove, crowds of people in this lake area are doing more than drinking on boats. They’re also diving into cold water for charity! This lake’s 2022 polar plunge will take place on February 26th to benefit Special Olympics Missouri. To make things more fun, this event will be complete with music and fun costumes. Not yet comfortable in crowds after the pandemic? There’s also an at-home option where you can participate by jumping in a cold shower, kiddie pool, or any other body of water that’ll have you shivering!

Maryland Polar Plunge

One of the country’s most long standing polar plunge traditions takes place on the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, near Lake Ogleton. For the past 25 years, thousands of attendees have dove into these waters to support the Special Olympics athletes of Maryland. But if you thought jumping into cold water once was enough, you’ll be amazed by the Super Plungers who do it 24 times in 24 hours! The Maryland Polar Plunge even has specific dates for various groups of plungers such as teachers, police officers, and corporate employees.

Lake Acworth Polar Plunge

Photo courtesy of Around Acworth Magazine

Even though the water is a little warmer down south, there’s still a lot of bravery required to plunge into the waters of Lake Acworth, Georgia. On February 19th, 2022 these plungers will take the dive to support Special Olympics Georgia. Stay after the event for live music, food, and prizes. If you’re looking for a polar plunge event in a more remote lake area without huge crowds, this one is perfect.

All across the country, lake lovers are taking the dive this winter! If you can relate to the lyric from Frozen “The cold never bothered me anyway” chances are, you could be one of them. We hope you have a (n)ice event!

Top Ice-Skating Lakes Around the World

Posted on January 8, 2021January 7, 2021 Camille Smith

If Winter 2020 were typical, we’d be congregating at indoor-ice skating rinks to enjoy this cold weather hobby within the comfort of a heated building. But during the pandemic this winter, we have to make some adjustments. Since outdoor activities are safer than indoor activities in preventing the spread of COVID-19, it’s best to keep group activities outside. But luckily, for us who live on the lake, there’s a good chance we can still ice skate this winter. Due to lake stratification patterns, a solid layer of ice on top of cold-weathered lakes makes this sport possible. At Lake Homes, we’re all about the lake lifestyle, whether fishing in the summer or ice skating in the winter. In honor of one of our favorite winter activities, check out these top ice-skating lakes across the globe.

Two Jack Lake, Canada

Located in the province of Alberta, this gorgeous lake is surrounded by mountains on all sides. Due to these natural wonders, some have referred to it as “Banff’s best-kept secret.” However, as a heads up, Two Jack Lake is not an official skating area, and it does not have skate rentals or Zambonis. As such, you’ll need to bring your own skates and be more cautious approaching the lake. If you’re looking for a more formalized selection of ice-skating lakes, check out Lake Louise in this same province.

Lipno Lake, Czech Republic

Photo courtesy of Wellness Hotel Frymburk.

When deciding which of the many ice-skating lakes in Europe to visit, this great lake is certainly one to Czech out (pun intended). Located in the market town of Frymburk in the Czech Republic, this lake is situated right by a comfortable resort. But don’t underestimate its cozy vibes for lack of impressiveness. Lipno Lake is actually the longest natural ice-skating track in Europe, stretching six miles in length — enough for multiple skating days without redundancy. As you skate by, you can enjoy amazing views of cute towns and snowy mountains emblematic of central Europe.

Lake Vanern, Sweden

As a country, Sweden is one of the most popular ice-skating destinations worldwide. And if you’re looking specifically for ice-skating lakes, look no further than Lake Vanern, the largest lake in Sweden and the third-largest in Europe. Its size stretches across three provinces: Vastergotland, Dalsland, and Varmland. Instead of overly manicured scenery, this lake boasts rustic, natural beauty and amazing sunsets. What could be more picturesque as you skate along this lake?

Shichahai, China

When it comes to ice-skating lakes, Shichahai Lake is probably the most fun-filled lake. There’s a reason this Beijing lake is so popular with children. Home to an 18-foot-long ice slide, ice bumper cars, ice boats, and ice chairs, there’s no limit to the excitement on this lake in the winter. If you decide to visit, the shorter days are no worry. Night skating is available with plenty of surrounding lights for safety.

Keystone Lake, Colorado

Located here in the U.S., Keystone Lake, Colorado, is the largest Zamboni polished outdoor rink in North America. And even better, it’s located on a natural lake. Suppose you visit without bringing your own ice-skating equipment, no worries. At this impressive, beautiful lake, you can rent skates for the day. If you’re into hockey, you can also rent pucks and hockey sticks for a game with friends. After a full day of enjoying the ice, you can check out the nearby Adventure Center for a cup of hot chocolate.

Which of these worldwide ice-skating lakes do you want to visit most?

Which Winter Activity Should You Do Today?

Posted on December 26, 2020January 7, 2021 Camille Smith

Throughout the pandemic, health professionals have encouraged us to stay inside more often. And when engaging in outdoor activities, we should stay at least 6 feet away from those who aren’t in our household.

Thankfully for those of us who live at the lake, social distancing is easier than ever. We have the luxury of a remote location, surrounding nature, and plenty of space to enjoy the lake lifestyle.

During the winter, it’s easy to get bummed about the impending cold weather. However, the chill outside shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a variety of socially distant winter activities! If you’re having trouble picking an activity for today, check out this flowchart we’ve created. Just start at the top, answer each question, and determine what activity is right for you today!

Indoor Activities

If your result landed on one of the indoor winter activities, we hope you’re excited about a cozy day inside, full of hygge and relaxation. As fellow lake lovers, we know there’s nothing more relaxing than snuggling up with a blanket while looking out your window at falling snow around your lake’s shoreline. It’s the essence of winter comfort.

If you’re feeling like lounging around, try starting the fireplace and picking up one of the popular books in 2020. If you’re interested in a DIY project, start a winter-themed craft such as paper snowflakes.

Today, for those of us who love baking, it may also be a great day to begin a new cooking project. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party over Zoom or baking cookies for one, there’s something about homemade dishes that warm the soul during this cold season.

Outdoor Activities

If your quiz results settled on an outdoor activity, make sure to bundle up! Depending on your lake house’s region, you might be in for some snow activities.

If you live in a northeastern lake area such Lake Placid, you might be lucky enough to hit the slopes. Skiing is one of the winter activities that are COVID-ready. It already requires an eye shield and neck warmers that can double as face masks — win-win for social distancing!

For a stationary adventure, you can try ice fishing. Especially if you’re an avid angler, this winter version of your favorite hobby is sure to be a fun adventure.

If you’d rather stay at home, you can still enjoy being outside in your backyard. For a more low-key day, gather around the fire pit with some blankets. For a more active afternoon, enjoy the snow layers by building a snowman or playing footprint tag.

If you’re not familiar with footprint tag, it’s the same as the traditional game — except you can only walk in each other’s snow footprints!

Enjoy Your Winter Wonderland

Regardless of which kind of winter activities you pick for today, we hope you make the most of your time at the lake. Even in the cold weather, embracing both the cozy indoors and the exciting natural world is what the lake lifestyle is all about. From our lake house to yours, we hope you enjoy your winter wonderland!

Lake Home Activities for the Winter Season

Posted on February 21, 2020December 4, 2020 Mary Walters

Cozy winter lake home constructed by Mark Tanner Construction — Photo courtesy of Mark Tanner Construction.

We all love the hustle and bustle around the lake during summertime. The sun and fun seem never-ending, and there’s an abundance of activities to keep busy. Then, as soon as the water cools and the leaves begin to fall, we might suddenly get hit with the winter blues. However, even though summer is gone and winter is here, there are ways to still enjoy your lake home. Keep reading to see our winter lake activities you should try this season!

Pick Up a Book

Enjoy the solitude of your lake home and enjoy one of our favorite winter lake activities by catching up on that pile of books that you’ve been neglecting. It always feels like we have lists of books that we should read, but life gets in the way. Now is the best time to delve into another world, read the biography of your favorite historical figure, or enjoy the romance novel of the year. Whatever you’re inclined to pick up, do it! If it’s not your cup of tea, there are loads more books from which to choose.

Shine a Light

According to a study conducted by Harvard, the leading cause of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a condition in which winter months catalyze depressive symptoms, is the lack of sunlight. Thankfully, there are now lamps and lightbulbs that are designed to emit light like the sun. These are considered to be the best way to combat the low energy that accompanies SAD. For a bit of warmth to accompany this natural light, you can always opt for a classic fire in your lake home den. There’s something so cathartic about snuggling up under a warm blanket and watching the burning logs in the fireplace.

Try a New Hobby

Put your extra time to good use and try something new! It’s always exciting to start a new project or a hobby that has piqued your interest. One our quintessential winter lake activities is knitting. The hardest part of any new project is getting started, so go ahead and pick up the yarn, candle wax and scents, or jewelry making materials and pursue your new hobby!

Clean up Your Home

If you’d like to use these winter months in a practical, productive way, consider rearranging your lake home or cleaning out those pesky junk drawers. Don’t wait for the spring cleaning season. Focus on clean-up and organization now so that when it warms up, you can enjoy all your impressive lake views with a clean home.

Spend a Cozy Weekend with Friends

Three friends casually drinking wine at the lake winter lake activities

Another reason for the winter blues is the solitude of this time of year. To combat those feelings first, remind yourself that the quiet time is only for a season. Literally. Sometimes it’s good for us all to take the time alone and reflect. Although the loneliness of the season can get to you, be encouraged that you can reverse the seasonal woes by doing one of our favorite lake activities: inviting all of your friends over to the lake. Whether that’s for a fun dinner night or quiet, cozy weekend, you can make new memories with your old friends, sitting together and chatting over the quietness of winter with the lake in the background. Through these moments, you can look back at this season as not a time of boredom, but as a time of relationship building.

Whatever activity you may choose, you won’t look back on this season with regret!