Why 8 Inches of Ice Are Required to Safely Support a Car or Light Truck on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, IN

Winter on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, brings a variety of seasonal activities—from ice fishing and snowmobiling to scenic drives around the frozen shoreline. However, one of the most serious safety concerns during this time is the assumption that all ice is strong enough to support heavy loads like vehicles. The reality is that ice must be at least 8 inches thick to safely support the weight of a car or light truck—and even then, conditions must be ideal.

Understanding Ice Thickness and Safety
Ice strength depends on more than just how cold the air feels. Several factors come into play, such as recent weather patterns, snow cover, currents, water depth, and whether the lake has seen any human activity (like ice drilling or plowing). Black (clear) ice is much stronger than white or opaque ice, which forms during periods of melting and refreezing. Even if one area of Simonton Lake measures 8 inches thick, another section could be far thinner due to variable conditions.  That’s why the guideline of 8 inches of solid, clear ice is considered the minimum for supporting the weight of a small vehicle. Trying to drive on anything less is extremely risky and can result in not just vehicle damage, but potentially fatal accidents.

Risks of Premature Ice Driving
Falling through thin ice with a car or truck isn’t just dangerous—it can be deadly. Vehicle weight significantly increases the stress on the ice, and even a small misjudgment can cause the surface to crack or collapse. Recovery of a sunken vehicle is expensive, and environmental damage from fuel and oil leaks is another serious concern for the health of Simonton Lake.

Tips for Staying Safe

• Check the thickness: Always drill test holes and measure the ice thickness with an auger before venturing onto the lake with a vehicle.
• Spread the weight: If you must drive on the ice, go slowly and keep windows open. Don’t stop your car or make sharp turns.
• Know your vehicle’s weight: A small sedan may weigh 3,000–4,000 lbs, while a light pickup truck can easily exceed 5,000 lbs. The heavier the load, the thicker the ice must be.
• Avoid pressure ridges, cracks, or dark spots: These are weak points in the ice and can give way even if the surrounding ice appears solid.
• Never drive at night or in low visibility conditions: If you can’t see hazards, you can’t avoid them.

Simonton Lake is a beautiful winter destination, but ice safety is non-negotiable. 8 inches of clear, solid ice is the minimum requirement for driving a car or light truck onto the frozen lake. When in doubt, stay off the ice with your vehicle and use safer, more appropriate methods to enjoy the winter landscape. Always respect the power of nature—especially when it’s frozen.