Smelt Report (3/22/12)
The smelt run on Lake Superior along Wisconsin’s south shore and Minnesota’s north shore typically takes place during the last couple weeks of April. The run is based greatly on when the ice leaves the shore as well as water and air temperatures. “March brought some unseasonably warm temperatures, the ice is quickly depleting on Lake Superior and an earlier than average run is anticipated – possibly as early as the beginning of April. There are reports of anglers out with their seines and dip nets, but no reports of any smelt as of yet.” Check back for updates as they become available.
Winter Recreation Report
From: Superior-Douglas County Convention & Visitors Bureau
**Update March 12, 2012
Two days of spring-like temperatures and sunshine followed by a day of rain have resulted in quick deterioration of trail conditions.
All winter recreation trails under the management of the Douglas County Forestry Department have been officially closed for the season.
Also, all Year Round Recreation trails are temporarily closed as of 12:01 a.m. Monday, March 12, 2012 EXCEPT for the following trail segments; please watch for updates-
Gandy Dancer Trail: MN/WI Stateline to Patzau
Saunders Grade: MN/WI Stateline to Schallameir Rd. parking lot
Wild Rivers Trail: Douglas Co/Washburn Co line to Co. Hwy. Y
Wild Rivers Trail: North Trailhead parking lot (CTH 'A') to the Harroun Rd.
Call 715-378-4528 for a detailed recording of closures.
Thank you to the Northwest Trails Members, volunteers, supporting businesses & property owners and visitors who supported, maintained and/or promoted the trails throughout the 2011/12 season.
**Please use extreme caution if you should venture out on the ice, the rain/melting snow and ice can cause unpredictable ice conditions.
Snowmobile and Winter ATV maps are available by calling 715-392-2773 or 800-942-5313, or by emailing vacation@superiorchamber.org
To find local licensing agents or for more information regarding licensing contact the WI Department of Natural Resources 1-888-936-7463 or check out their website http://dnr.wi.gov/
Throughout the season, a detailed recording of updated trail information can be heard by calling (715)-378-4528.
Updated trail condition information also available at www.bruleriverriders.com
For additional information or questions please contact the Douglas County Forestry Department at (715) 378-2219 Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Please always stay on the marked trails, be mindful of closures & respectful of property owners and be aware of logging operations in the area or any signs of open water.
Cross Country skiing and snowshoeing:
Brule River State Forest Afterhours Trail System –
Conditions are unknown at this time. Parking, a heated shelter and restrooms are available at the trailhead compliments of the State Forest and the Brule Valley Ski Club. Wisconsin ski trail passes are required. Daily passes are $4 and annual passes are $20.
Cross Country Skiing Trails in the Superior Municipal Forest: Closed
Call 715-395-7299 to hear a recording with the updated conditions.
Trail passes are required and can be purchased Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm at the Parks & Recreation office located at 1316 N. 14th St. (2nd floor) or by envelope at trailhead with a 3-5 day turnaround.
Season passes ($25 city resident, $30 non-city resident), day passes ($5 city and non-city resident), 15 years and younger FREE and seniors 65+ receive $5 off Season pass.
Douglas County Ski Trails: closed
Pattison State Park- closed
For additional information, please call (715) 399-3111
Amnicon Falls Snowshoe Trails– Closed
For more information, please call (715) 398-3000.
Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding and Tubing at Mont du Lac: Mont du Lac has closed for the ski season. Please call or visit website to learn more 218-626-3797 www.skimontdulac.com
Ice Fishing
No updated conditions to report as of 3/12/12.
Please remember with ice fishing or any other winter activity that takes you out on the ice to use caution regardless of the recent cold temperatures. Know the ice you’re on or ask the locals and always be aware of the ice thickness as well as any changes in ice conditions. Ice is unpredictable due to moving water from springs, inlets and outlets, which may cause the ice to be thinner in some spots.
Recommended minimum ice thickness for foot travel is 4 inches, 6 inches or more for a snowmobile or ATV, 8-12 inches for small cars or light trucks and at least 12-15 inches for midsize cars or trucks.
Skating Rinks- The outdoor municipal ice skating rinks are closed as of Sunday March 11. Skating rink hours when open are Monday through Friday 4p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Each rink is closed one day a week for flooding, please check with individual rinks for flooding schedule. For unexpected closures or updates please call the recorded hotline at 395-7299.
**Important notice**
On October 20, 2009, the Common Council, at the recommendation of the Parks and Recreation Commission, went on record in support of the policy: "The City of Superior requires the use of helmets on our hockey rinks for people 16 and under."
A Community Events Calendar is available online at www.superiorchamber.org.