Well, well, well. Look who decided to grace us with a high of 51°F today at Lake Arbutus. Don’t get too excited though—we’re starting at a bone-chilling 27°F this morning, because February in Wisconsin likes to remind you who’s boss. Winds are practically nonexistent at dawn, just 1 mph from the southwest, as if the atmosphere itself is too cold to bother.

Your Paddling Window: 7AM-7PM Breakdown

Here’s the deal for anyone considering kayak rental at East Lake Arbutus today: you’ll watch temperatures climb dramatically from that frosty 27°F at 7am all the way up to 51°F by 3pm. That’s a 24-degree swing, which in Wisconsin winter terms is basically a tropical vacation. Winds build gradually throughout the morning, creeping from 1 mph at dawn to 5 mph by 10am, then maxing out at a gentle 7 mph during the midday hours. Your prime paddling window? Between 1pm and 4pm when temps hover in the high 40s to low 50s and skies clear to sunny. Sure, you’ll still see your breath, but at least you won’t lose feeling in your fingers immediately.

Through the Day

Early birds at 7am will face 27°F with mostly cloudy skies—truly masochistic paddling territory. By 9am, things improve to 36°F with mostly sunny conditions, and that 3 mph wind remains laughably gentle. The midday stretch from noon to 3pm delivers the goods: temperatures ranging from 47°F to 51°F, sunny skies, and winds holding steady at 7 mph from the southwest. Late afternoon sees temps dropping back through the 40s, with 5-6 mph winds carrying you into evening. By 7pm, you’re back to 42°F and partly cloudy—still warmer than this morning’s absurdity.

Why Today Works

This day is made for the Wisconsin paddler who’s been going stir-crazy since November and needs to feel water beneath their hull. With winds averaging just 5 mph and topping out at 7 mph, paddleboard rental in Wisconsin actually makes sense today—no whitecaps, no drama. Layer up, embrace the weird February warmth, and get out there.

Visit Details

Kayak Kiosk has 6 kayaks and 6 paddleboards available from sunrise to sunset. This is an unstaffed location, so bring your adventurous spirit and common sense—things to do in Wisconsin don’t supervise themselves.

Should You Come?

If you’re the type who gets giddy about 50-degree days in February, today’s your day on Lake Arbutus. Just wait until after 11am unless you genuinely enjoy mild hypothermia with your morning coffee.

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.