Can you swim here today?
Bear Creek
Colorado · River
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of August 22, 2026, the water temperature at Bear Creek is 33°F (1°C), measured by USGS gauge 09359010, 1.4 miles away.
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today: water temperature is 33°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion.
- Water temperature is 33°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion. — USGS gauge 09359010, as of Aug 22, 10:30 AM gauge-local time
- Thunderstorms are reported nearby; lightning over open water is deadly, so wait 30 minutes after the last thunder.
- Flow is below the 25th percentile for Aug 22 (median 56 ft³/s over 33 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 22, 10:30 AM gauge-local time
Flow is low for this date — below the 25th percentile for Aug 22 (median 56 ft³/s over 33 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for Colorado yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge MINERAL CREEK AT SILVERTON, CO (1.4 mi away), as of Aug 22, 10:30 AM gauge-local time.
Before you get in
- Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
- Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
- Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
- Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
- Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.
Read next
Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.