Bear Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Bear Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Bear Lake today is 12.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 15.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.1°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 14.6°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.7°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.0°C | 12.9°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.0°C | 13.1°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.0°C | 13.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.0°C | 13.4°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.0°C | 13.6°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 1°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| April | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| May | 8°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| October | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Bear Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Bear Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Bear Lake in Michigan experiences marked seasonal swings in water temperature typical of inland northern lakes. In winter the surface commonly reaches freezing and the lake may be ice-covered, around 32°F (0°C) or below. Spring thaw brings chilly conditions, with surface temperatures often rising from roughly 35–55°F (2–13°C) through March to May. By summer, especially in July and August, surface waters frequently warm into the high 60s to mid 70s °F, roughly 20–25°C, and in shallow sheltered bays can climb a bit higher. Autumn cooling returns the lake to temperate levels, commonly in the 50–65°F range (10–18°C) before ice forms again.
Swimming is generally allowed at Bear Lake where public access or private shorelines permit entry, and many people swim during the warmer months when temperatures are comfortable. However, usable swimming season is limited by the lake’s cold spring and fall temperatures and by ice in winter. Local beach rules, water-quality advisories (for example, algal blooms) and safety considerations such as sudden drop-offs, cold shock in cooler water, and the absence of lifeguards can restrict or discourage swimming at times. Visitors should check current local notices and use standard water-safety precautions, including life jackets for weak swimmers.