Hebgen Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Hebgen Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Hebgen Lake today is 12.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 23 | 14.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 24 | 14.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 25 | 14.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 26 | 14.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 27 | 14.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 28 | 14.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 29 | 14.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 30 | 13.2°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUL 1 | 18.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUL 2 | 18.3°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUL 3 | 18.3°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUL 4 | 18.3°C | 13.8°C | |
| JUL 5 | 18.3°C | 14.1°C | |
| JUL 6 | 18.3°C | 14.4°C | |
| JUL 7 | 18.3°C | 14.7°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 | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| February | 3°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| May | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| June | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| July | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| September | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| October | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| November | 2°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
Hebgen Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Hebgen Lake: Weather Forecast
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Location & Local Information
Hebgen Lake sits at relatively high elevation in southwestern Montana, so its surface water temperatures stay cooler than lower-elevation lakes. In winter the lake commonly freezes and surface temperatures hover near 32–39°F (0–4°C). Spring into early summer typically brings readings from about 35–55°F (2–13°C) as snowmelt and inflow keep the lake chilled. The warmest period is mid-summer, when surface temperatures often reach roughly 55–68°F (13–20°C), with the sun-warmed shallows occasionally nudging into the low 70s°F (around 21–22°C) on very warm afternoons. By fall the lake cools again, generally dropping back to the 40–55°F range (4–13°C) as air temperatures fall.
Swimming at Hebgen Lake is permitted and commonly practiced in summer at campsites and shoreline access points, but visitors should be prepared for brisk water. The combination of high elevation, spring-fed inflows and reservoir dynamics keeps temperatures lower than many recreational beaches, increasing the risk of cold-water shock and hypothermia during prolonged immersion. There are few formal lifeguard services, so swimmers are advised to stay close to shore, wear a life jacket if boating or venturing farther out, and limit time in the water during cooler seasons.