Little Traverse Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Little Traverse Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Little Traverse Lake today is 14.5°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 15.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.7°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 15.4°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 14.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 15.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 14.9°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 14.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 14.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 14.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 14.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 14.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 14.8°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 14.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 14.9°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 | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| February | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 3°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| May | 9°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| October | 12°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Little Traverse Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Little Traverse Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Little Traverse Lake in Michigan typically follows the seasonal temperature patterns of northern inland lakes. In spring the surface water often ranges from about 45–60°F (7–16°C) as the lake comes out of turnover; by early summer it warms into the 60s°F (15–21°C), and peak summer surface temperatures commonly reach the mid-70s to upper-70s°F (24–26°C), sometimes briefly approaching 80°F (27°C) on hot spells. In fall the surface cools back through the 50s–60s°F (10–18°C) before stratification breaks down. During winter the lake can be ice-covered and bulk water temperatures tend to sit near freezing to about 39°F (0–4°C) below the ice, with colder surface conditions when ice is present.
Swimming is generally allowed on Little Traverse Lake where shoreline access exists and no local restrictions or private-property rules prohibit it. Recreational swimming is feasible and most comfortable in mid to late summer when surface temperatures are in the mid-70s°F (around 24°C). Early- and late-season dips involve colder water that can cause rapid loss of body heat and an increased risk of cold-water shock, so precautions such as limiting exposure time, wearing a wetsuit, and observing posted safety guidance are advisable. Always respect posted signs, local ordinance, and private property.