Shadow Mountain Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Shadow Mountain Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Shadow Mountain Lake today is 19.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 4 | 19.2°C | 17.9°C | |
| AUG 5 | 18.9°C | 17.9°C | |
| AUG 6 | 18.9°C | 17.9°C | |
| AUG 7 | 18.6°C | 17.9°C | |
| AUG 8 | 18.8°C | 17.9°C | |
| AUG 9 | 19.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| AUG 10 | 19.7°C | 17.9°C | |
| AUG 11 | 19.5°C | 17.9°C | |
| AUG 12 | 17.9°C | 19.3°C | |
| AUG 13 | 17.9°C | 19.3°C | |
| AUG 14 | 17.9°C | 19.2°C | |
| AUG 15 | 17.9°C | 19.1°C | |
| AUG 16 | 17.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 17 | 17.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 18 | 17.9°C | 18.9°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 | 1°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| March | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| May | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| June | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| July | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| August | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| September | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| October | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Shadow Mountain Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Shadow Mountain Lake: Weather Forecast
August 12
August 13
August 14
August 15
August 16
August 17
Location & Local Information
Shadow Mountain Lake, a high-elevation reservoir in Colorado’s Arapaho National Recreation Area, stays relatively cool year-round because it is fed by mountain runoff and sits around 8,000–8,300 feet. Seasonal surface temperatures reflect that elevation and inflow: in spring (April–May) the lake commonly ranges about 35–50°F (2–10°C) as snowmelt keeps it cold. In summer (June–August) surface water can warm to roughly 55–70°F (13–21°C) on sunny afternoons, though deeper water remains much colder. Fall brings cooling surfaces near 45–60°F (7–16°C) before freeze-up. In winter the surface often freezes; any open water will be very close to 32°F (0°C) to only a few degrees above, and ice cover is typical from late fall through early spring.
Swimming is generally allowed at Shadow Mountain Lake and people do swim there in warmer months, but it is not a lifeguarded, warm-weather beach. Cold-water shock, rapid weather changes, strong winds and boat traffic create hazards even on pleasant days, and hypothermia can set in quickly in cool mountain water. Winter swimming is unsafe due to ice and near-freezing temperatures. Visitors choosing to swim should limit immersion time, stay near shore, use appropriate protective clothing if needed, and heed posted rules and ranger guidance for safety.