Winter Island Access

[CaptT820]

My wife and I have only owned our Sleeper's Island property since October '15, so we haven't tried to access the island in the winter. We would like to walk out to the island now that the ice has frozen, but don't know what point or where to access it from? Do people know mainlanders who give them permission or is there some other preferred method? We are looking for a way to hike out there for now. Thanks in advance.

[radioman]

Stay off the ice this winter, regardless!

[AC2717]

my inlaws used to have a place on Sleeper on the rattlesnake facing side, and they would drive right down the ramp at west alton marina and drive around the island and park right in front of their place

I second not going out this year though either walking, driving, or snowmobiling

[codeman671]

Normally you could park at the Rattlesnake landing, or get permission from West Alton or Minge Cove. Where do you keep your boat?

That being said, don't try it this year!

If you are really dying to get out, you could try one of the island service companies that has an airboat and pay for a ride.

[JMR]

Parking at Rattlesnake Landing risks having your car towed while you are gone. The new signage and rules are pretty clear. I wouldn't recommend it.

[codeman671]

Parking at Rattlesnake Landing risks having your car towed while you are gone. The new signage and rules are pretty clear. I wouldn't recommend it.

Even during the winter? I would not recommend it during the summer but are they really watching it this time of year?

[CaptT820]

Thank you for the responses, as we really are so new to island living, I don't know much about the winter access points. I realize this year is not a normal year, so the ice is not safe to walk or travel over, but figure to be prepared if next year is more close to the norm.

Codeman- We don't actually have a full time home for the boat yet and will probably work out some sort of launching/parking privileges with West Alton Marina as they are the closest by far to our location (south side of Sleepers). They do not have any slips available as of right now, but we are on the waiting list. I didn't think to ask them about parking in the winter to walk over, but may bring up the subject next time I speak with them.

Thanks

[JMR]

Sorry, Codeman that I did not respond earlier, but yes the Landing is being watched even in winter due to complaints from island residents

[JMR]

Board for the island recently had items without proper permits towed from the Rattlesnake Island parking area