Chatfield Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Chatfield Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Chatfield Lake today is 16.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 6 | 17.4°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.7°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 17.2°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 17.1°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 17.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.7°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 16.7°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 17.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 17.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 17.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 17.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 18 | 17.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 17.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 20 | 17.0°C | 16.8°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 | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| April | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| May | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| June | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| July | 21°C | 26°C | 31°C |
| August | 19°C | 25°C | 31°C |
| September | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| October | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| November | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Chatfield Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Chatfield Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Chatfield Reservoir (often called Chatfield Lake) in Colorado is a seasonal lake whose surface water temperatures vary markedly through the year. In winter the surface is cold, generally around the low 30s to about 40 °F (0 to 4 °C). Spring sees a steady rise, with typical temperatures from about 40 to 60 °F (4 to 15 °C) as the lake thermally stratifies. Summer months bring the warmest surface readings, commonly in the mid-60s to mid-70s °F (18 to 24 °C), though deeper water remains cooler. In autumn the surface cools again, often falling into the 50s to mid-60s °F (10 to 18 °C) as air temperatures decline. Local weather, wind and inflows can shift these ranges year to year.
Swimming is allowed at Chatfield in designated beach and swim areas when park rules and health advisories permit. The state park manages a roped-off swim beach separated from boat traffic and sometimes staffed with lifeguards during peak season; swimming outside those zones or during posted closures is discouraged or prohibited for safety. Periodic water-quality advisories, such as cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) warnings, can close swimming even in summer, and cold or deep water presents a risk of cold-water shock. Observing posted signs and current park notices is advised before entering the water.