Das Boot question

[gootwan]

My group has permits to do Das Boot/Subway next weekend and the weather forecast shows very cold temps the days leading up to it. The forecast I saw had lows in the mid 20's from Tues through the weekend.

We will have drysuits over plenty of layers but I'm wondering about the chances the pools in Das Boot could be frozen over by the weekend? Or, if a few nights of mid 20's isn't enough time to form a lot of ice down there.

We have experience doing cold canyons but dealing with ice would be new for us so I'm also wondering how much that changes the game, and whether we should begin planning for alternative canyons.

Any input would be great. Thanks!

[Iceaxe]

There is zero percent chance the pools will be frozen. Pools in slot canyons seldom freeze, or it at least takes a very long time of extremely cold weather to get them to freeze.

I think it has to do with the natural isolation tendencies of slot canyons. The same things that keep the pools ice cold in summer keep them from freezing in winter. The skinner the slot the less chance you will encounter ice. Anyhoo... that's my two cents based on years of experience. YMMV

[ratagonia]

There is zero percent chance the pools will be frozen. Pools in slot canyons seldom freeze, or it at least takes a very long time of extremely cold weather to get them to freeze.

I think it has to do with the natural isolation tendencies of slot canyons. The same things that keep the pools ice cold in summer keep them from freezing in winter. The skinner the slot the less chance you will encounter ice. Anyhoo... that's my two cents based on years of experience. YMMV

What he said.