Access Open to Walk Out Traffic
Starting tomorrow (Friday) morning, the Red Door Access will be open for walk out traffic to the second break. The Ice Team was out this afternoon drilling holes and noted that, with the cold weather and lack of snow, the ice on the north side of Lake Mille Lacs has continued to thicken. In the areas we were concerned about earlier in the week the team observed 4″ of clear, dark ice, allowing us to give the go-ahead to open the access to foot traffic only. We will not allow any ATV, side by side or other traffic out of the access at this time.
The Ice Team did note one active crack inside of the first break and spanning as far as the eye could see. The crack is marked with cones – along with a path to cross it – and was approximately 2″ wide. We will continue to monitor.
Please remember that early ice can be particularly dangerous and plan to come prepared. We recommend a float suit, ice chisel / spud bar, ice picks, and ice cleats as the ice along the first and second break is extremely slippery. Also bring a friend; it’s best not to be on hard water alone.
We will be out again first thing in the morning checking the ice again. If any of our observations change, we will provide an update straight away. In the meantime, check in at the office to purchase your parking pass and get the latest on ice conditions.
