January 8, 2021 on Abraham Lake
Great bubbles if you know where to look...
Based on ice conditions checks and tours between January 2 and 8, 2021
The ice is getting thicker and there are some great bubbles, cracks and ice features to be found. Finding them is a little harder this year.
We've seen colder nights this past week and the ice is slowly getting thicker. On January 8 we were seeing 21 cm of ice on our tests in the area near the new parking lot, up a centimetre from the day before and 6 cm thicker than a week ago.
The lake froze during a snowstorm this year and a lot of the lake is currently covered with a layer of white ice, making it hard to see any bubbles. The patches of clear ice with bubbles in the areas between the new parking lot and Whitegoat Creek are smaller but beautiful.
The easiest access is at the new parking lot where you'll find clear ice and bubbles near the access. The other areas we're using for our tours require a one to two kilometres walk.
Preacher's Point on January 2, 2021
Mount Michener and ice bubbles on January 8, 2021
Preacher's Point is still a great option. The ice is on the ground outside of the main river channel and we're seeing lots of great ice formations, bubbles and features with the rocks and grass underneath. The river channel re-opened this week at the point but the area is still fairly easy to navigate with a basic understanding of ice safety.
We've also found some clear ice with bubbles at the Cline Landing area but those were close to 2 km away from the access. The ice in that area has a white layer that will most likely stay all winter.
We're also seeing an increase in people skating this season, which combined with limited ice means that you should expect lots of marks on the ice in areas that are easily accessible.
Check out our latest photos from the Nordegg & Abraham Lake region to get an idea of what we're seeing on our adventures.
Smaller patches of clear ice on January 8, 2021
Cracks, ribbons and bubbles on January 8, 2021
Abraham Lake on January 8, 2020
Looking back at Mount Abraham on January 8, 2020
Ice Safety
We share this information to help visitors to the area plan their trip. This represents the conditions we have observed at a specific point in time. Ice safety depends on many more factors than just ice conditions and anybody going on the ice should have the knowledge and experience required to assess the risks, or should consider going with a guide.
Head Out With A Guide
Make the most of your adventure and head out with a guide. Pursuit Adventures offers winter tours throughout Central Alberta from November to April. Snowshoes, ice cleats and kicksleds are also available to rent in Nordegg.
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HEAD OUT ON YOUR OWN
Sometimes you just want to head out on your own to explore the area. We get it. That's why we share all our adventure guides. You'll find our full guide to the Abraham Lake ice bubbles here, or you can see each of the locations below.
Latest Conditions and Updates
Check out the latest conditions and updates for Abraham Lake.
Abraham Lake Ice Conditions – January 2 2021
White ice around 12 -15 cm on most of the lake making it harder to find ice bubbles. Preacher’s Point it still the best option.
Abraham Lake Ice Conditions – December 28 2020
Thin ice (< 7 cm) on most of the lake. The best option for ice bubbles is still Preacher's Point, even if partially snow-covered.
Abraham Lake Ice Conditions – December 27 2020
The lake froze over the past couple of days but the ice is still thinner than 5 cm in most areas. Preacher’s Point is snow-covered.
Abraham Lake Ice Conditions – December 23 2020
We’re starting to see more ice on the lake but it’s still early season conditions. Use extra caution in areas that have only recently frozen.
Outdoor Safety
- For your safety and the protection of the area please follow trail signs, stay on the trail and respect all trail closures
- Be respectful of wildlife and familiarize yourself with wildlife safety techniques including keeping your pet on a leash and keeping your group together.
- Always use the bear-proof garbage bin, keep a clean site and store your food in a bear safe fashion.
- Always be prepared when travelling outdoors.
- This area has limited to no cell phone reception. We recommend carrying an InReach on your adventures.
- Information provided here may be inaccurate or outdated. Always make sure to obtain current information before going on your adventure.
Disclaimer
There are inherent risks in outdoor activities. Ice conditions may change quickly due to weather conditions and other factors. Using the information provided is entirely at your own risk and Pursuit Adventures is in no way liable for any injuries or other damages that may be sustained by anyone using this information.
Have you been to Abraham Lake recently? Let us know about your adventure in the comments below.