Chain Lakes — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Chain Lakes, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Chain Lakes today is 20.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 25 | 17.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 26 | 17.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 27 | 19.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 28 | 19.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 29 | 19.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 30 | 19.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 31 | 20.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 2 | 16.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 19.3°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 19.1°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 18.9°C | |
| SEP 8 | 16.0°C | 18.7°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 | 3°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| May | 4°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| June | 7°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| July | 15°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Chain Lakes: Water Temperature by Location
Chain Lakes: Weather Forecast
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September 2
September 3
September 4
September 5
September 6
Location & Local Information
Chain Lakes Provincial Recreation Area, located in the foothills of southwestern Alberta along Highway 22, consists of a series of small reservoirs surrounded by rolling hills and mountain scenery. Because of its higher elevation and constant inflow of cool water from nearby streams, the lake system remains relatively cold for most of the year. In early spring, temperatures hover around 37–43°F (3–6°C) as snowmelt enters from the surrounding terrain. By late May and June, the surface warms modestly to about 50–57°F (10–14°C). During midsummer, from July through August, the water in shallow bays can reach 63–68°F (17–20°C) on warm, sunny days, though deeper sections stay much cooler. As autumn returns, cooling air quickly lowers the temperature back below 55°F (13°C) by late September.
Swimming in the Chain Lakes is permitted, but the cool temperature and often breezy mountain conditions make it more suitable for short dips rather than extended swims. The water remains clear and fresh, appealing to visitors looking to cool off during hot weather, but many prefer the site for fishing, canoeing, and camping instead. The best swimming conditions occur in midsummer, when air temperatures are highest and the surface water warms slightly, though even then it can feel brisk due to the elevation and steady inflow of cold water.