Welcome to January in Wisconsin, where a high of 41°F feels practically tropical and we genuinely consider it kayaking weather. Today at East Lake Arbutus, we’re looking at sunny skies with temperatures ranging from a brisk 24°F at dawn to a downright luxurious 41°F by mid-afternoon. If you’ve been waiting for the warmest day of the week to hit the water, congratulations—your questionable life choices have been rewarded.

Your Paddling Window: 7AM to 7PM

Let’s break down this masterpiece of Wisconsin winter weather. At 7am, you’ll be greeted by a crisp 24°F with 3 mph winds from the north—perfect for those who believe frostbite builds character. Temperatures climb steadily throughout the morning, pushing past freezing around 9am when we hit 32°F with 5 mph winds. The sweet spot arrives between 1pm and 3pm when temps peak at 40-41°F and winds hold steady at 6 mph. By 7pm, we’re back down to 33°F with barely a whisper of wind at 1 mph. Your best sub-window for kayak rental at East Lake Arbutus? Aim for noon to 4pm when conditions are most forgiving for your exposed fingers.

Through the Day on Lake Arbutus

Early morning paddlers (7-9am) will experience that classic Wisconsin winter greeting: sub-freezing temps and 92% humidity that’ll make your breath freeze mid-exhale. By midday, as the sun does its modest best, winds pick up slightly to 7 mph around 11am-noon before settling back to 6 mph through the afternoon. Late afternoon brings a gentle decline—39°F at 4pm, 38°F at 5pm—with winds dropping to a gentle 3 mph by 5pm and practically nothing by sunset. The transition from partly sunny to mostly cloudy around 1pm and 6pm won’t dramatically affect your paddleboard rental Wisconsin experience, but it’s worth noting.

Who Should Paddle Today?

This is a day for the cold-adapted, the slightly unhinged, and the desperately cabin-fevered. With average winds around 5 mph all day, Lake Arbutus will be glassy enough for beginners who happen to own drysuits. If you’re the type who gets excited about things to do in Wisconsin that don’t involve staying indoors by a fire, today’s your day.

Visit Details

We have 6 kayaks and 6 paddleboards available from sunrise to sunset at our unstaffed kiosk. No reservations needed—just show up, scan, and paddle into the frozen abyss.

Should You Come Today?

If you have proper cold-water gear and an appreciation for dark humor, Lake Arbutus kayak adventures await. If the thought of 24°F at sunrise makes you want to cry, maybe check back in April.

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.