The treasured destination for Midwestern paddlers is Lake Superior, notably the Apostle Islands.  When planning a getaway to the area, if you have kayaking in mind, its important to be aware of the temperature of the water.  For sea kayakers making the trek to Lake Superior, a drysuit and rolling skills are especially important due to the frigid temperature of this northern inland ocean.  While air temperature rises in spring and summer, the water temperature of Lake Superior can chill you to the bone most of the prime paddling season.  An appropriate wetsuit or drysuit is a must!  Late in the summer water temperatures along the shore can rise up to the high 60s and low 70s.

How can you find out the best time (water temperature-wise) to visit Lake Superior?  My favorite resource is the Michigan Sea Grant Coastwatch.  You can pick a region of Lake Superior and observe current or historical temperatures.  For example, below is a snapshot of the area around the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.  Granted, it's early May, but Brrrrr! Check out those 36 degree temps!

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Richard Thomsen May 9th, 2010 10:50:48 AM

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