Ice-out on Upper Saranac Lake was officially recorded on April 12, 2026. Ice-in occurred on December 7, 2025, resulting in a total ice cover duration of 117 days—two days shorter than the long-term average of 119 days. This year’s ice-out occurred one day earlier than the historical average date.
Following heavy winds on Saturday, April 4, ice cleared from the south basin approximately one week earlier than the north basin. Because ice-out is defined as the point when the entire lake surface is free of ice and navigable from end to end without obstruction, the official date could not be declared until the remaining ice in Back Bay at the NYSDEC boat launch had sufficiently dissipated to allow full passage.
Since the Upper Saranac Foundation began tracking ice-out records in 1998, the earliest recorded ice-out occurred on March 24 (2012), while the latest occurred on May 2 (2018).
Although consistent ice duration records for Upper Saranac Lake have only been maintained since 2012, emerging data suggest a gradual decline in the number of days the lake remains ice-covered. The shortest ice cover on record was 83 days in the winter of 2023–24, while the longest period was 147 days during the winter of 2013–14.
This year’s ice-out aligns with broader regional trends. Nearby Mirror Lake, which has records dating back to 1903, shows an average reduction of 27 days in ice cover over time. Its historical average duration is 138 days, compared to approximately 125 days since 2000.
Monitoring ice-in and ice-out dates is a valuable tool for understanding changes in water quality, aquatic ecosystem health, and the impacts of climate change. Warmer water temperatures can affect native species, such as trout, and may increase vulnerability to invasive species.
For a full history of ice records, visit: https://usfoundation.net/programs/ice-in-ice-out/
