Montana — Water Temperature Today and Throughout the Year
Discover water temperatures in Montana (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
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Water Temperature Trends
Montana, known for its vast landscapes and abundant rivers and lakes, experiences a wide range of water temperatures, which vary significantly throughout the year. During the summer months, lakes like Flathead Lake and Canyon Ferry Lake can warm up to between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C), making them suitable for swimming and water activities like boating, kayaking, and fishing. These temperatures are comfortable for recreational swimmers and are particularly appealing during the warmer summer months when the surrounding areas are hot. Flathead Lake, for example, is one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in the western United States, and its waters provide a scenic and refreshing escape during the peak summer heat.
In the cooler months, particularly in spring and fall, the water temperatures in Montana's lakes and rivers drop significantly. Lakes such as Lake McDonald and Hebgen Lake see water temperatures fall to between 40°F and 55°F (4°C to 13°C), which is too cold for comfortable swimming. However, these cooler temperatures still allow for activities like fishing, especially in deeper waters where fish species like trout and bass are active. During fall, when the water is cooler, many anglers take advantage of the mild weather for fishing trips, and the stunning fall foliage adds to the appeal of these excursions.
Winter in Montana brings even colder water temperatures, with many lakes and rivers experiencing near-freezing conditions. The water in lakes such as Lake St. Mary and the Missouri River can drop to around 32°F (0°C), making swimming or boating impractical. In fact, many of the lakes in the northern part of the state, such as those in the Glacier National Park area, freeze over during the colder months, providing opportunities for ice fishing. The rivers, like the Yellowstone and the Bitterroot, also stay cold but remain flowing, with water temperatures often hovering just above freezing, around 34°F to 38°F (1°C to 3°C). Winter activities in Montana primarily focus on fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, as the cold temperatures create a stark, serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts.