Jackson Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Jackson Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Jackson Lake today is 8.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing can be used. 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 | 8.5°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 8.3°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 8.2°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 8.5°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 8.6°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 8.1°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 8.1°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 8.2°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 8.5°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 8.5°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 8.5°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 8.5°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 8.5°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 8.5°C | 8.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 8.5°C | 8.5°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 | 5°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| May | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| June | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| July | 10°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| August | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| September | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| October | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| December | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Jackson Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Jackson Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Jackson Lake in northwestern Wyoming is fed largely by mountain runoff and sits at high elevation, so its water stays cold much of the year. Typical surface temperatures range from around freezing in winter (about 32°F / 0°C) to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) during the warmest summer weeks. In spring and early summer, when snowmelt dominates, surface readings commonly fall between about 34–50°F (1–10°C). Even at the height of summer the lake rarely warms above the mid‑60s°F (around 18°C), and deeper water remains significantly colder, so temperatures can drop quickly if you move off the surface or into greater depths.
Swimming in Jackson Lake is allowed, but conditions require caution. Because the water is chilly and the lake is large, even experienced swimmers face heightened risk of cold shock and hypothermia; wearing a wetsuit, limiting time in the water, and staying close to shore reduce those risks. Boat traffic in popular areas near Colter Bay and marinas also makes choosing a visible, safe spot important. There are no inherent legal prohibitions on recreational swimming, but the combination of low temperatures, changing weather, and motorized craft means swimmers should exercise care and be prepared for brisk conditions.