Vallecito Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Vallecito Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Vallecito Reservoir today is 15.7°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 15 | 16.8°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 16 | 16.5°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 17 | 16.7°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.7°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.5°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.1°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 21 | 15.9°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 22 | 15.8°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 23 | 20.6°C | 15.9°C | |
| SEP 24 | 20.6°C | 16.2°C | |
| SEP 25 | 20.6°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 26 | 20.6°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 27 | 20.6°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 28 | 20.6°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 29 | 20.6°C | 17.4°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| June | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| July | 16°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| August | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| October | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Vallecito Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Vallecito Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
Location & Local Information
Vallecito Reservoir sits at fairly high elevation in southwestern Colorado, so its water stays cool for much of the year. Surface temperatures typically range from roughly 35–55°F (2–13°C) in spring as snowmelt and runoff dominate, rising to around 55–70°F (13–21°C) in the warmest weeks of July and August. Early fall usually sees a drop back into the 45–60°F (7–16°C) band as air temperatures cool and inflows increase, and by winter the reservoir often approaches freezing at 32–36°F (0–2°C) with ice forming in colder periods. Deeper layers remain colder year-round, so even in warm months swimmers should expect a rapid change in temperature with depth.
Swimming in Vallecito Reservoir is generally allowed and commonly practiced during the summer because public access areas and beaches make it an attractive spot for recreation. It is not typically a lifeguarded facility, and fluctuating water levels, cold temperatures below the surface, boat traffic, and occasional strong currents near inlets can create hazards. For those choosing to swim, late July through August offers the mildest conditions, but caution is advised due to the lake’s cool baseline temperatures and variable mountain-weather conditions.