Little Bitterroot Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Little Bitterroot Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Little Bitterroot Lake today is 14.8°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 | 15.1°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 24 | 14.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 25 | 14.6°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 26 | 14.8°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 27 | 15.2°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 28 | 15.1°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 29 | 15.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 30 | 14.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUL 1 | 18.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| JUL 2 | 18.9°C | 15.2°C | |
| JUL 3 | 18.9°C | 15.4°C | |
| JUL 4 | 18.9°C | 15.6°C | |
| JUL 5 | 18.9°C | 15.8°C | |
| JUL 6 | 18.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUL 7 | 18.9°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| April | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| May | 3°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| June | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| July | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| September | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Little Bitterroot Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Little Bitterroot Lake: Weather Forecast
July 1
July 2
July 3
July 4
July 5
Location & Local Information
Little Bitterroot Lake in northwestern Montana tends to run cold for much of the year because of its northern latitude, elevation, and shaded forested shoreline. Seasonal surface temperatures typically sit near freezing under ice in winter (around 32°F / 0°C). In spring the lake warms slowly, often ranging roughly 34–50°F (1–10°C). Peak summer surface temperatures are normally the most comfortable for swimming, commonly reaching about 55–70°F (13–21°C) on warm afternoons; however, deeper water stays noticeably colder. By early fall the surface usually cools back to about 40–55°F (4–13°C) as air temperatures drop.
Swimming is generally allowed at Little Bitterroot Lake and it is used recreationally by locals and visitors, but the water temperature strongly influences when it is comfortable and safe. Warm-season swims are possible in summer when surface temperatures are highest, yet even then hypothermia can be a risk with prolonged exposure because the lake remains relatively cool. During shoulder seasons and winter, ice and frigid water make swimming unsafe. Visitors should observe posted rules, avoid entering the water alone, limit immersion time in cold conditions, and wear suitable protection (wetsuits or drysuits) if planning extended swims.