Greetings,

Ran my quads across the creek this weekend and next morning found the front wheels frozen -- i.e. not rolling. After a little bouncing, kicking and wiggling they rolled again. But I'm wondering -- is this just a little surface ice left over from the dunking or does it indicate that water has gotten in somewhere it shouldn't have (like a bearing)?

 

I'm no expert but it sounds like too much water.

 

Could just be the brake pads or shoes.

 

I would have to say that it's just the brake pads/shoes, as rancherdave suggested.

 

the brake shoes on my blaster freez and keep it from rolling if your brakes are cable operated they will be harder to pull if they are frozen

 

It's very likely you have some water inside your brake drum. If you have not pulled the front drums off yet, its time! The brake drum seals do need occasional maintainance, especially if you do a lot of mud or water riding. I actually do mine twice a year but I ride mostly wet and muddy areas all the time.
Clean the seals and backing plate surface real good and then lightly coat the seals with a waterproof grease before reinstalling. If the shoes or drums show signs of water being in there make sure to clean them also. Lightly sanding the drum surface and brake shoe will help restore any lost brake efficiency. There is also a seal on the inside of the backing plate (where the axle comes thru) that should be cleaned and regreased. When the drum is off you can push the axle in enough to get behind it and clean off the seal surface and grease it lightly too. This is one that is often overlooked and can allow water to get into the wheel bearing area and cause problemslater.
Also concerning the rear brake.... a cable lubing kit is a very good investment. It makes a huge difference on how much less hand effort is required on a well lubed cable compared to one that isnt lubricated.