Blue Glacier Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Blue Glacier Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Blue Glacier Lake today is 15.7°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 15.9°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 15 | 16.3°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 16 | 16.4°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 17 | 16.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 18 | 14.8°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 19 | 15.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 20 | 15.7°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 21 | 15.7°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 22 | 17.8°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 23 | 17.8°C | 15.9°C | |
| SEP 24 | 17.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 25 | 17.8°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 26 | 17.8°C | 16.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 17.8°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 28 | 17.8°C | 16.4°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 | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| March | 0°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| April | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| May | 1°C | 11°C | 21°C |
| June | 4°C | 14°C | 24°C |
| July | 7°C | 19°C | 31°C |
| August | 9°C | 20°C | 30°C |
| September | 9°C | 18°C | 26°C |
| October | 9°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| November | 0°C | 7°C | 14°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
Blue Glacier Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Blue Glacier Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
The lake at the terminus of Blue Glacier on the Olympic Mountains is typical of high‑elevation, glacially fed lakes: water remains very cold year‑round. Surface temperatures in late spring and early summer commonly sit just above freezing, roughly 32–39°F (0–4°C). During the warmest weeks of late summer, shallow or sun‑exposed areas can rise to roughly 40–50°F (4–10°C), but deep portions and inflows from melting ice usually stay much colder. In autumn and winter the lake approachs near‑freezing conditions again, frequently hovering around 32–35°F (0–2°C) as air temperatures drop and glacial runoff increases.
Swimming opportunities are limited by the water temperature and mountain hazards rather than formal bans in many places; however, entering a glacial lake carries serious risks. Cold‑water immersion can cause cold shock and rapid onset hypothermia within minutes even in summer, and submerged rocks, silty water, strong currents near glacial outflow, or icefall hazards make self‑rescue difficult. Park regulations or seasonal access restrictions may also apply, so many visitors choose to admire the lake from shore rather than swim. If someone considers wading or brief immersion, it should be treated as hazardous, done with caution, and only after checking local conditions and rules.