Well, well, well. December has decided to play nice today at East Lake Arbutus, delivering a balmy high of 54°F that frankly feels like Wisconsin is gaslighting us. With a low of 40°F at dawn and winds starting at a practically comatose 1 mph NE, this might be the most paddleable December day you’ll see until… checks notes… next year.

Your Paddling Window: 7AM-7PM Breakdown

Here’s how this glorious almost-winter day unfolds: You’ll start at 40°F at 7am with those barely-there 1 mph winds and rain showers lurking in the forecast. Temperatures steadily climb through the morning—42°F at 8am, 46°F by 9am, and breaking 50°F by 11am. Your golden window sits between noon and 1pm when we hit our peak 54°F with mostly cloudy skies and manageable 3 to 6 mph winds from the north and northwest. Then reality returns as temperatures start sliding back down while winds pick up to 7-10 mph NW by late afternoon. Best bet? Launch around 11am and paddle until 2pm before the wind decides to actually show up.

Through the Day

Early birds paddling at 7am will experience that crisp 40°F morning air with 85% humidity—basically paddling through a damp blanket while winds sit at a mere 1-2 mph. By midday, conditions mellow to 52-54°F with humidity dropping to the low 60s. The afternoon shift gets spicy: winds build progressively from 6 mph at 1pm to 9 mph NW by 3pm, peaking at 10 mph by 4pm. If you’re still on the water at 7pm, you’ll catch 43°F temps with winds settling back to 6 mph N—cold, but honestly not terrible for December in Wisconsin.

Why Today Works

This is a day for experienced paddlers who own actual cold-weather gear and laugh at rain showers. With winds averaging 5 mph across the day but building to 10 mph NW in the afternoon, you’ll want to plan your return trip accordingly. Beginners in cotton hoodies need not apply—that’s just hypothermia with extra steps.

Visit Details

Kayak Kiosk has 6 kayaks and 6 paddleboards ready for your improbable December adventure, available sunrise to sunset. This is an unstaffed location, so bring your self-sufficiency along with your dry bag.

Should You Come Today?

If you’re searching for things to do in Wisconsin this December and “paddle a kayak rental at East Lake Arbutus in possible rain” sounds appealing, today’s your day. Paddleboard rental Wisconsin enthusiasts who thrive on weird weather windows, we see you—come claim your off-season glory.

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.