Snowmobiles cross an international ice bridge between Drummond and St. Joseph's Island. One stands alongside a tree that is one of many sued to mark the parth. (Courtesy of Drummond Island Tourism Association)

LAKE HURON — Spanning approximately 12 miles across the frozen Lake Huron, the natural ice bridge connecting Drummond Island, Mich. and St. Joseph Island, Ont. is now open for snowmobiles, fat-tire bicycles, dog sled teams, snowshoers and cross-country skiers.

The Drummond Island Tourism Association (DITA) called the ice bridge “a rare and celebrated winter crossing.”

The sanctioned ice bridge is open only when ice and weather conditions allow and is monitored regularly.

All travelers crossing the international border must comply with U.S. and Canadian border requirements. Travelers entering the United States are required to download the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) ROAM app and create an account. It is strongly recommended that users complete this process prior to travel across the ice. After arrival, travelers will be required to check in through the ROAM app and complete a video chat with a CBP officer.

The ROAM app functions best when connected to WiFi, which is significantly more reliable than cellular service in the area, states DITA. Public WiFi is available at the office at 34974 S. Townline Rd. for travelers who experience difficulty with cellular connectivity. Closer to the waterfront, password-protected WiFi is also available from the Drummond Island Yacht Haven; the password is posted on the door of the ship store at the north end of Water Street.

Drummond Island, Mich. and St. Joseph Island, Ont. -- both located in Lake Huron near the easternmost end of the Upper Peninsula -- are now connected by an ice bridge open to international travel. (Google Maps image)

The route of the ice bridge is traditionally marked with evergreen trees to help guide travelers and prevent snowmobilers from getting lost while riding in the dark or during inclement weather. However, conditions can change rapidly, and caution is always advised.

“Ice conditions are never 100% safe,” advised the DITA in a press release. “Travelers should check current conditions before crossing, avoid traveling alone, and be prepared for changing weather and ice conditions. It’s recommended that riders stay on the tree line and not veer off.”

To give travelers an insight into current conditions, webcams are set up at Drummond Island Ferry Dock, Potagannissing Bay and Whitney Bay. The feeds from all three may be seen at visitdrummondisland.com.