Understanding Ice Thickness: Why 10 Inches of Ice Is Required for Medium Trucks on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, IN

When winter settles in and Simonton Lake freezes over, it can be tempting to treat the icy surface like a solid extension of land. However, not all ice is created equal—and understanding the safety requirements for ice thickness is crucial, especially when it comes to vehicles. If you’re planning to drive a medium-weight truck onto the ice, it’s essential to know that you need at least 10 inches of clear, solid ice to support that level of weight safely.

Simonton Lake, located in Elkhart, Indiana, is a popular destination for winter activities like ice fishing, snowmobiling, and even ice driving. But while the scenic lake may appear frozen solid during colder months, ice thickness can vary dramatically across different areas due to a range of environmental factors—such as water currents, springs, snow cover, and nearby aerators.

According to safety guidelines from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Minnesota DNR (which is often cited as a national authority on ice safety), clear, blue or black ice is the strongest. For example:

• 4 inches is generally safe for foot traffic and ice fishing.
• 5–7 inches can support snowmobiles or ATVs.
• 8–12 inches is required for small cars or light trucks.
• 10–12 inches or more is needed for medium-weight trucks.

Trying to drive a medium-weight truck—typically weighing between 6,000 and 10,000 pounds—on anything less than 10 inches of solid ice can be extremely dangerous. Ice does not fail gradually like many materials; it can give way suddenly and catastrophically, risking lives and vehicles.

It's also important to note that ice thickness is never uniform across a lake. Shaded areas, places near docks or boat ramps, and regions over flowing water or underwater springs may be much thinner—even if the majority of the lake appears safe. Snow cover can insulate and weaken ice, while currents under the surface may erode it from below.

Before driving a truck on Simonton Lake in winter, make sure to:

• Check current ice thickness in multiple locations using an auger or cordless drill.
• Consult local ice reports or ask neighbors and anglers who have recently been on the ice.
• Avoid areas near aerators, bridges, or inlets where ice is typically thinner and less stable.
• Never assume last week’s conditions still apply—ice can weaken quickly due to shifting weather patterns.

Safety on frozen lakes like Simonton Lake begins with preparation and respect for nature’s unpredictability. When in doubt, don’t drive out. No truck is worth the risk of falling through.  By following proper guidelines and waiting until ice reaches a minimum of 10 inches, you can safely enjoy winter activities while minimizing danger to yourself and others.