Minnesota — Water Temperature Today and Throughout the Year
Discover water temperatures in Minnesota (United States), with real-time data and annual trends. Find all locations in the region and check the water temperature in them. We find every place where you can swim and show you the water temperature there today and throughout the year.
Water Temperature in Lakes and Rivers
Popular Lakes
Popular Rivers
Popular Places
Water Temperature and Swimming Overview
Regions and Map
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Water Temperature Trends
Minnesota is known for its abundant lakes and rivers, which experience a wide range of water temperatures throughout the year. In the summer months, the water in many of the state's lakes, such as Lake Superior, Mille Lacs Lake, and Lake Minnetonka, can warm up to comfortable levels for swimming and other water activities. The temperatures in these lakes typically range from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) during the peak of summer, making them popular spots for boating, fishing, and swimming. However, due to Minnesota's northern location, even in the summer, the water can feel cooler than in warmer regions, especially early in the season or in deeper lakes like Lake Superior, where temperatures often remain below 60°F (15°C).
As the seasons change, so do the temperatures in Minnesota's rivers and lakes. In spring and fall, the water can range from 45°F to 55°F (7°C to 13°C), which is still quite chilly for swimming but suitable for activities like kayaking or canoeing. The Mississippi River, one of the most famous rivers in the state, tends to have water temperatures in this range during these transitional months. The cold waters of the river also make it a good environment for cold-water fish species, such as walleye and northern pike, during these periods.
In winter, Minnesota’s rivers and lakes experience a dramatic drop in temperature. Water temperatures in lakes and rivers during this time often hover around 32°F (0°C), which is freezing point. In many areas, lakes freeze over completely, making ice fishing a popular winter pastime. Rivers like the Minnesota River and the Red River of the North also maintain temperatures close to freezing, and the strong currents prevent them from freezing entirely. The cold temperatures during the winter months make water activities nearly impossible, but they do provide a unique opportunity for ice-related activities, such as ice fishing, snowmobiling, and skating.