Well, well, well. It appears Mother Nature has completely lost the plot because today at Lake Altoona we’re looking at a balmy 54°F high and a low of 37°F—in winter Wisconsin, no less. The morning starts with dead calm winds at 0 mph, which honestly feels like a cosmic apology for January’s existence.

Your Paddling Window: 7AM-7PM

Let’s break down this anomaly of a day. At 7am, you’re looking at 37°F with 0 mph winds—completely still, mostly sunny, and crisp enough to make you question if you’ve somehow teleported to early October. By 10am, temperatures climb to 44°F and the wind finally wakes up, bringing a gentle 5 mph ESE breeze that’ll barely ruffle your paddle strokes. The sweet spot? That 2pm to 4pm window when we hit 52-54°F with consistent 5 mph winds and decreasing humidity. If you must pick one hour, 4pm at 54°F with 47% humidity is genuinely pleasant for kayak rental on Lake Altoona.

Through the Day

Early birds at 7-9am will experience that glassy, mirror-like water with absolutely no wind—0 mph variable, essentially still air that makes Lake Altoona look like polished glass. By midday, clouds start rolling in (partly sunny at noon, mostly cloudy by 1pm), but temperatures are climbing through the 40s. The afternoon maintains that steady 5 mph ESE wind through 6pm, shifting slightly to 5 mph E by 7pm. Late afternoon paddlers at 5-6pm will see temps dip back to 50-52°F, but conditions remain eminently paddleable for paddleboard rental Wisconsin adventures.

Who Should Actually Come Today

This is genuinely one of those rare winter days where the 5 mph winds and 50s temperatures make paddling accessible to intermediate and even adventurous beginners with proper layers. Experienced cold-water paddlers will find this laughably easy. If you’ve been eyeing things to do Wisconsin-style in January, today’s your absurd gift.

Visit Details

We have 6 kayaks and 6 paddleboards available from sunrise to sunset. Lake Altoona kayak rentals are unstaffed, so come prepared to be self-sufficient.

The Verdict

Layered-up paddlers who appreciate irony should absolutely take advantage of this meteorological confusion. Don’t wait—Wisconsin will remember what month it is soon enough.

Weather & Safety Disclaimer: This forecast is based on current data and is subject to rapid change. Always check current conditions in person before paddling. Water conditions can change suddenly and unexpectedly. Kayak Kiosk is not liable for changes in weather, water conditions, or personal injury. Paddlers assume all risks associated with paddling. Always wear a properly fitting PFD, check official weather forecasts, and use good judgment. Do not paddle in conditions you are uncomfortable with.