Moraine Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Moraine Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Moraine Lake today is 12.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUL 14 | 10.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUL 15 | 12.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUL 16 | 12.3°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUL 17 | 12.3°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUL 18 | 12.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUL 19 | 12.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUL 20 | 12.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUL 21 | 12.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUL 22 | 16.0°C | 12.6°C | |
| JUL 23 | 16.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| JUL 24 | 16.0°C | 12.9°C | |
| JUL 25 | 16.0°C | 13.1°C | |
| JUL 26 | 16.0°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUL 27 | 16.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUL 28 | 16.0°C | 13.7°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 | 0°C | 3°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| May | 2°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| June | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| July | 8°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Moraine Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Moraine Lake: Weather Forecast
July 22
July 23
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
Location & Local Information
Moraine Lake, located in Banff National Park in Alberta, is one of Canada’s most photographed alpine lakes, famous for its vivid turquoise color created by light reflecting off glacial rock flour. Because it is entirely fed by glaciers, the water remains extremely cold throughout the year. In early spring, when the lake begins to thaw in late May or early June, the temperature is typically around 37–39°F (3–4°C). Even in midsummer, the surface rarely warms above 41–46°F (5–8°C), as the constant inflow of melting ice and snow keeps the water frigid. By September, before it begins to freeze again, temperatures drop back to near 37°F (3°C), with minimal seasonal variation compared to lower-elevation lakes.
Swimming in Moraine Lake is allowed but strongly discouraged because of the near-freezing temperature and high risk of cold shock or hypothermia. Even on warm summer days, exposure to the water for more than a few minutes can be dangerous. Most visitors admire the lake from its shores or explore it by canoe, where the cold water adds to the dramatic alpine atmosphere. The lake’s beauty lies in its clarity and color rather than its suitability for swimming, making it a destination best enjoyed for sightseeing, photography, and quiet reflection.