Community Ice Thickness Map
Disclaimer: Ice thickness and hazard reports shown here are user-submitted and may not be verified. Ice conditions can change rapidly. Always use extreme caution and follow Minnesota DNR ice safety guidelines. Limitless Media is not responsible for the accuracy of reports or any decisions made from this information.
An approved report simply means reviewed for spam or inappropriate content — it does not mean that the information is accurate or safe.Loading most recent report…
Important Safety Notice:
The ice thickness, hazard details, and surface conditions displayed on this map are submitted by members of the public. Limitless Media does not independently verify the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of these reports.
Ice conditions can change rapidly due to weather, currents, pressure ridges, and other natural factors. Conditions may differ significantly from the observations shown here.
This map is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a safety assessment or as professional guidance.
Limitless Media, its affiliates, partners, and contributors are not liable for any injuries, damages, or losses arising from the use of this information.
Always check ice conditions firsthand, follow Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) ice safety recommendations, and use extreme caution on all frozen bodies of water.
How to Read This Map
Marker Colors & Thickness
Each marker shows a community-submitted ice report. Colors are based on the reported thickness:
- < 2" – Extremely unsafe. Stay off.
- 2–<4" – Unsafe for most use.
- 4–<5" – Minimum for foot traffic in many guidelines.
- 5–<8" – Snowmobile/ATV range (conditions dependent).
- 8" and up – Thicker ice; still not a guarantee of safety.
- Unknown – Thickness not reported or unclear.
Tap/click a marker to see the detailed report, including notes and any hazards the reporter observed.
Hazards in Popups
In each marker popup, you’ll see hazard flags like:
- Slush present – Soft, wet snow on top of the ice. Often indicates weak support.
- Pressure ridge nearby – Raised lines or “walls” in the ice where sheets are pushing together.
- Wet surface spots – Puddles or wet streaks on top of the ice.
- Cracks observed – Visible cracks or fractures, especially if wet or wide.
- Open water within 50 yards – Major warning sign. Indicates very dangerous ice nearby.
Important Safety Reminders
- This map is based on community-submitted observations, not official ice measurements.
- Conditions can change quickly due to temperature swings, currents, springs, shoreline changes, and snow cover.
- Thickness can vary dramatically across a single lake — one safe area does not mean the whole lake is safe.
- Always bring safety gear (ice picks, flotation, rope), go with a buddy, and let someone know your plan.
- Follow all posted signs, DNR/agency advisories, and local rules first. When in doubt: don’t go out.
Ice Map FAQ
Who can submit an ice report?
Anyone who has recently been on the ice in our coverage area can submit a report. Anglers, skaters, walkers, snowmobilers, first responders and emergency personnel, and local residents are all encouraged to share what they’re seeing.
How often is this map updated?
New reports appear after they’ve been reviewed and approved by our team. During active ice season, that may be multiple times per day. Older reports remain on the map so you can see how conditions have changed over time.
Are these official measurements?
No. These are community-submitted observations. They are not official measurements from any city, county, or state agency. Always treat them as one piece of information, not a guarantee of safety.
What area does this map cover?
This tool is focused on the Twin Cities south metro and surrounding region. Reports from nearby lakes and communities are welcome, but coverage will naturally be strongest where people submit the most updates.
What if I see something wrong or out of date?
If you believe a report is inaccurate or dangerously outdated, you can submit a new report with current conditions, or contact us directly through our website so we can review and update as needed.
How is my contact information used?
Contact details are never shown on the public map. They’re only used by our team if we need to follow up with questions about a report. You’re welcome to submit anonymously by leaving that field blank.
Does a “good” report mean the lake is safe?
No. Ice conditions can change quickly within hours and can vary dramatically across a lake. Use this map alongside your own checks, safety gear, buddy system, and official advisories. When in doubt, don’t go out.