Lake Bonneville — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Bonneville, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Bonneville today is 16.6°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 5 | 16.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 16.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.9°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 16.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 16.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 16.2°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 | 7°C |
| February | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| April | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| May | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| July | 17°C | 24°C | 31°C |
| August | 19°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| September | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| October | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| November | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| December | 4°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Lake Bonneville: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Bonneville: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Lake Bonneville, often referred to as Bonneville Pool or Bonneville Reservoir, lies along the Columbia River in northern Oregon, just downstream of the Bonneville Dam. The lake’s water temperature varies notably with the seasons due to its position within the temperate Pacific Northwest and the river’s strong flow. In winter, water temperatures typically drop to around 40–45°F (4–7°C), making it too cold for swimming or most recreational water use. By late spring and summer, temperatures usually rise to between 60–70°F (16–21°C), depending on air temperature, flow rate, and sunshine. These moderate conditions create a comfortable environment for limited summer recreation, though currents and water releases from the dam can cause fluctuations in both temperature and water level.
Swimming is technically allowed in parts of the Bonneville Reservoir, but it is not common due to the river’s swift currents, cold depths, and nearby navigation channels. Designated recreation areas, such as nearby coves or park-managed sections of the riverbank, may offer safer wading or swimming zones during the warmest months. Most visitors instead enjoy boating, fishing, and scenic observation of the Columbia River Gorge. Even in midsummer, the cool, refreshing water of Lake Bonneville serves best for brief dips rather than extended swims.