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Colorado River
Colorado River Current Water Temperature and Forecast
On this page, you will find comprehensive information about the water temperature in Colorado River, including current readings, historical data and trends, monthly averages, as well as weather forecasts and upcoming temperature predictions. We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year.
Current Water Temperature in Colorado River
20.6°C
TODAY
20.2°C
YESTERDAY
19.4°C
A WEEK AGO
As of today, the minimum water temperature in the Colorado River ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing can be used.
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.
Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecast of Water Temperature
Water Temperature Chart for Colorado River Over the Last 30 Days
Today the water temperature in Colorado River is higher than the same day in previous years. The water temperature range here in April is from 5°C to 22°C. The water temperature is trending upward, and it has increased both over the past 30 days and the past week.
The forecasted water temperature values for Colorado River are presented in the table below.
The actual water temperature values near the shore may differ by a few degrees from the stated values. For the development of the forecast, we use our own mathematical model that takes into account the current water temperature changes, historical data, and key weather trends, including wind strength and direction, and air temperature in each specific region.
Daily Water Temperature Chart
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 11 | 19.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| Apr 12 | 18.8°C | 13.5°C | |
| Apr 13 | 18.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| Apr 14 | 18.7°C | 13.5°C | |
| Apr 15 | 20.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| Apr 16 | 20.3°C | 13.5°C | |
| Apr 17 | 20.2°C | 13.5°C | |
| Apr 18 | 20.6°C | 13.5°C | |
| Apr 19 | 13.5°C | 20.2°C | |
| Apr 20 | 13.5°C | 19.8°C | |
| Apr 21 | 13.5°C | 19.4°C | |
| Apr 22 | 13.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| Apr 23 | 13.5°C | 18.7°C | |
| Apr 24 | 13.5°C | 18.4°C | |
| Apr 25 | 13.5°C | 18.1°C | |
| Apr 26 | 13.5°C | 17.8°C |
Water Temperature Ranges in Colorado River by Month
January
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 3°C | 8°C | 13°C |
February
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
March
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 3°C | 11°C | 19°C |
April
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 5°C | 13.5°C | 22°C |
May
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 8°C | 13.4°C | 21°C |
June
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 14°C | 18.5°C | 22°C |
July
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
August
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 17°C | 21.4°C | 23°C |
September
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 11°C | 17.6°C | 19°C |
October
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 8°C | 13.3°C | 16°C |
November
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 3°C | 8.1°C | 16°C |
December
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 3°C | 4.7°C | 8°C |
Monthly Water Temperature Histogram for Colorado River
Water Temperature in Cities and Towns on Colorado River
Known Beaches in the Area of Colorado River?
Echo Lodge Resort
Echo Lodge Resort is a 3-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Colorado River. There is parking. There are restrooms. Echo Lodge Resort is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Parker
Parker is a 4-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Colorado River. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Parker is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
River Island State Park
River Island State Park is a 5-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Colorado River. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. River Island State Park is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
River Island
River Island is a 3-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Colorado River. There is parking. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Parker Dam
Parker Dam is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Colorado River. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Parker Dam is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Big Bend Resort
Big Bend Resort is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Colorado River. There is parking. Big Bend Resort is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Buckskin Mountain State Park
Buckskin Mountain State Park is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Colorado River. There is parking. There are restrooms. Buckskin Mountain State Park is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Fox Resort
Fox Resort is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Colorado River. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Fox Resort is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Parker Dam
Parker Dam is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Colorado River. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Parker Dam is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Colorado River Weather
APRIL 18
12°C / 25°C
light drizzlerain: 29% | wind: 40 km/h
APRIL 19
10°C / 28°C
moderate drizzlerain: 29% | wind: 22 km/h
APRIL 20
16°C / 30°C
overcastrain: 4% | wind: 18 km/h
APRIL 21
18°C / 32°C
overcastrain: 0% | wind: 17 km/h
Water Temperature in Colorado River: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities
Source La Poudre Pass
• location Rocky Mountains, Colorado, United States
• elevation 10,184 ft (3,104 m)
Mouth Gulf of California
• location Colorado River Delta, Baja California–Sonora, Mexico
• elevation 0 ft (0 m)
Length 1,450 mi (2,330 km)
The Colorado River, one of the most iconic rivers in the United States, spans several states, including Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, and California. Due to its size and the varying regions it flows through, the temperature of the water can fluctuate significantly. In the upper reaches of the river, near its source in the Rocky Mountains, the water can be quite cold, often hovering around 10°C (50°F) or lower. However, as the river travels through the desert regions, particularly in Arizona and Nevada, the water warms up significantly, reaching temperatures of 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) during the summer months, especially in areas like Lake Mead.
The warmer temperatures in the lower stretches of the river make it more suitable for swimming and other water activities, although there are still certain risks associated with the strong currents, especially in sections near dams and steep canyon walls. Popular swimming spots on the Colorado River include places like the beaches near the Hoover Dam and along Lake Powell, where the water is calmer and more inviting for recreational swimming. However, it's important to keep in mind that the Colorado River is a major water source, and its flow is carefully regulated, which means water levels and temperatures can change quickly.
While the Colorado River provides great opportunities for water-based activities such as kayaking, rafting, and boating, swimming can be more challenging in some parts due to the cold water and powerful currents. It’s also worth noting that water quality can vary, particularly in areas with heavy recreational traffic, so swimmers should always ensure they’re choosing safe spots. Despite these factors, the Colorado River remains a popular destination for water enthusiasts, with the right conditions offering a chance to enjoy its warm and scenic waters, especially during the summer months.
Geographical Location of Colorado River
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado River and its Water Temperatures
What is the current water temperature in Colorado River?
The water temperature today in Colorado River ranges from 49°F (9.6°C) to 72°F (22.4°C).
What is the water temperature in Colorado River during the summer months?
The average water temperature in Colorado River during the summer months is typically between 65°F to 71°F (19°C to 21°C), and it can reach up to 75°F (24°C) at its warmest. However, in some years, the temperature may exceed this range.
What is the water temperature in Colorado River in May?
The average water temperature in Colorado River in May ranges from 46°F to 70°F (8°C to 21°C).
What is the water temperature in Colorado River in September?
The average water temperature in Colorado River in September is typically between 52°F to 66°F (11°C to 19°C).
Where does Colorado River flow?
Colorado River flows through United States (Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, California).
Is it possible to swim in the Colorado River?
Yes, it is possible to swim in the Colorado River. However, due to strong currents and cold temperatures, swimming can be challenging and potentially dangerous.
What major cities are located on Colorado River?
Cities along the course of Colorado River include Bullhead City (Arizona), Grand Canyon (Arizona), Grand Junction (Colorado), Lake Havasu City (Arizona), Las Vegas (Nevada), Moab (Utah), Page (Arizona), Yuma (Arizona).