Don't Swim In a Minnesota Lake--YET!

Minnesota's state motto claims we live in the land of 10,000 lakes, yet there is actually over 12,000 in this great northern state. However, one thing is for certain; all MN lakes are all too cold for swimming in the spring.  This March marked several record breaking temperatures in the high 70's and I know more than a few Minnesotan's were tempted to turn on their central air yet a quick jump in the lake could have been deadly. It is normal for air temperatures in April and May to occasionally be as warm and sultry as August, making the water in those 10,000+ lakes look very refreshing. But beware. In order to swim safely, the water temperatures need to be at 70 degrees. Most Minnesota lakes do not reach a 70 degree temperature until late May. Some lakes in the northern part of the state never get that warm during the year!

Minnesota has thousands of beautiful lakes within its borders. But be forewarned, the inviting beauty is best enjoyed from the shore until warm the water has warmed sufficiently for safe swimming.