Posted in Minnesota Nature January 12, 2021 by

A Natural Phenomenon, Rime Ice, Has Been Popping Up In Minnesota And It’s Breathtaking

All across the Land of 10,000 Lakes, natural phenomena of the earth and sky put on a spectacular show throughout the year. You might see the Northern Lights, ice stacking, or a mysterious disappearing waterfall – to name only a few examples. Today, we’d like to add another interesting natural phenomenon that you can find in Minnesota. It’s called rime ice, and it’s an absolutely beautiful addition to the winter season. Read on below to learn about this breathtaking phenomenon:

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
If you've taken a walk around Minnesota lately, you likely noticed just how incredibly beautiful it has been. This is in part thanks to a natural phenomenon called rime frost. It's the delicate, white ice that covers trees and other objects.
Lorie Shaull/Flickr
Rime ice is caused only by fog. It's different from the equally beautiful hoarfrost because it only occurs when it is foggy. Hoarfrost, on the other hand, can only occur on bright days.
J Brew/Flickr
Because Minnesota has had a cold spell with many foggy mornings, it makes sense that so many areas are covered in rime ice. The drops in the air interact with the freezing temperature and freezing objects, causing the frost.
Bernd Thaller/Flickr
Many of Minnesota's parks and trails have been busy with people going out to experience the rime frost for themselves. According to local news, the frost is especially thick around the Eagan area.
Lorie Shaull/Flickr
If you have a chance, get outside to enjoy this beautiful natural phenomenon. It transforms the state into a magical winter wonderland!
Lorie Shaull/Flickr

Have you seen rime ice anywhere in Minnesota or elsewhere? Tell us about it in the comments!

Address: Minnesota, USA