Curious if anyone is planning on an early trip
I am tempted but a little nervous about ice forming with lows below freezing. Any thoughts?

I met up with BearBurrito yesterday in Ely. He mentioned he was going to try to get out on South Hegman and, possibly also paddle into the number lakes. Although he admitted the current cold weather may diminish his enthusiasm. :)

Wouldn't fret about the lakes icing up. You on the other hand.....

bapazian1: "Curious if anyone is planning on an early trip
I am tempted but a little nervous about ice forming with lows below freezing. Any thoughts?"

I've been researching an early trip as well. Driving up soon and planning to be on the water around April 28th. Every outfitter I've called has said all ice is out and no concern about refreeze. The forecast is way too warm during the days for anything to actually refreeze. That's not saying it'll be warm, and of course the water is the biggest danger and will be very cold, however ice is no longer a concern.

I went last weekend :)

The big lakes will not freeze up but small water, ponds and lazy streams will get some ice. It is definitely going to be cold enough for things to refreeze.
It makes your trip more exciting!
Tom

I wouldn’t worry about any ice forming on lakes or streams. Be smart and have fun.

I am headed out tomorrow to do the Kawishiwi Triangle with some work friends. I wouldn't be worried about ice anywhere, but I would stay away from any big water for safety reasons. Paddle smaller lakes or rivers and you will be fine.

I did get out to South Hegman, and paddled into North in the snow to see the pictographs. I put into the numbered lakes on Thursday, and putzed around for a couple days. Came out this morning. Weather could have been better, but nothing was frozen up.

Wound up having a wonderful trip. Entered moose lake- followed border to south arm knife - kekekabic- fraser - thomas - Ima - ensign - back down the moose chain. Had rain Friday night. Snow into mid Saturday. Very cold Sunday morning but wound up being a lovely bluebird day later. Saw a couple of moose on splash just past the ensign splash portage. A real treat!

No ice, no work (just retired), and no kids left at home :( so I am going on my first solo on Saturday. 15 days...Crab Lake to Loon to Lac LaCroix to Basswood to Fall Lake! Here is a link to the route: 15 Day Solo Season Opener

sjruelle: "No ice, no work (just retired), and no kids left at home :( so I am going on my first solo on Saturday. 15 days...Crab Lake to Loon to Lac LaCroix to Basswood to Fall Lake! Here is a link to the route: 15 Day Solo Season Opener "

Have a great time, be safe!

Very cool route sjruelle. To connect crab to loon are you heading west and taking LIS River across echo trail? How are you getting back to your car at burnside?