Pathfinder Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Pathfinder Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Pathfinder Reservoir today is 13.9°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 6 | 13.8°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 14.1°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 14.2°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.7°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 13.6°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 13.2°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 14.5°C | 13.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 14.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 14.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 14.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 14.5°C | 14.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 14.5°C | 14.1°C | |
| OCT 20 | 14.5°C | 14.1°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| April | 4°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| May | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| October | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| November | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| December | 3°C | 5°C | 7°C |
Pathfinder Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Pathfinder Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Pathfinder Reservoir in Wyoming experiences a wide annual range of surface temperatures because of its high-altitude location and continental climate. In winter the reservoir often freezes or stays near the freezing point, with surface readings commonly around 28–35°F (−2 to 2°C). Spring brings a steady warm-up, with water typically in the 35–55°F (2–13°C) band as snowmelt continues. Peak summer surface temperatures usually reach roughly 60–75°F (16–24°C) on warm, calm days, though deeper water remains cooler. By fall the surface cools again, often sitting between about 40–60°F (4–16°C) before ice forms.
Swimming is generally permitted at Pathfinder where public access exists, but opportunities are governed more by practicality and safety than by prohibition. Warm summer surface temperatures make casual swimming feasible, yet there are few if any lifeguarded beaches, significant boat traffic, and sudden cold-water layers that can cause cold shock or hypothermia, so caution is advised. Outside the warmest months the water is usually too cold for comfortable or safe extended immersion. Local signage and rules can restrict swimming in certain areas, and seasonal ice cover effectively forbids it in winter, so recreational swimmers typically choose summer and sheltered spots while observing boating and safety notices.