Winter Experience - Ice on the Homer Spit

Slabs of Ice on the East of Side of the Homer Spit

Every winter, when the temperatures drop below 20 degrees for more than a couple of days, ice starts to form on and around the Spit.  The ice makes a fascinating

and beautiful spectacle that is worth a trip up the Spit to see.

Ice in the Fishing Hole

In the Fishing Hole, the rising and falling tide pushes slabs of ice onto the shoreline where it gets trapped.  The ice forms blocks and slabs that catch the sun and glitter in the light.

Ice in the Harbor

In the small boat harbor, sometimes the ice starts to form around the docks and boats.  The changing tide breaks it into floating sheets of ice and slush that collect around the hulls and pilings.  If the tide is high, you can see sometimes see otters or seals fishing for clams, crabs, and other sea life around the marina.

Eagle on the Ice

Sunrise Over the Ice

Perhaps the most intriguing site is the ice that forms on the east side of the Spit.  The changing tides push and pull the ice, breaking it into chunks and slabs.  As each wave moves to the shore, the ice rises and falls in an endlessly fascinating display.  When the tide is right, the Bald Eagles and gulls can be found standing on the larger pieces, watching for dinner.