Are alpine lakes safe to swim in?

And shockingly the water doesn't have to be THAT cold to experience symptoms. So next time you wanna dive into that deep alpine lake water, think twice. Either wear a life-vest (they make compact blow up life vests now, so they're easy to pack). Or wade in from the beach.



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Lake Michigan in particular is the roughest of the Great Lakes, and poses a major risk to those thinking of taking a dip.

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Fine particles of pulverized rock absorb and scatter sunlight in ways that can give water a striking blue-green color.

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Know before you go Before you head out, check online to find out if the swim area is currently monitored, is under advisory, or has been closed for health or safety reasons. This is especially important after a heavy rain.

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Stay out of the water if Cloudy water can be a warning that there are more germs in the water than normal. Discolored or smelly water could mean there is a harmful algal bloom (HAB) in the water.

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Lake Erie is the fourth-largest lake in North America (by surface area) and the eleventh-largest worldwide. It is the Great Lakes' southernmost, shallowest, and smallest by volume. By the 1960s, Lake Erie had become the most polluted of the Great Lakes, owing to the substantial industrial presence along its coasts.

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Lake Michigan's riptide and longshore tides are unparalleled when it comes to danger among all the Great Lakes. In fact, due to its unnaturally strong winds, it's not unusual for this lake to have strong rip currents that can be dangerous for swimmers.

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Lake Superior is the world's largest freshwater lake by area (31,700 mi2 /82,100 km2). It is also the coldest and deepest of the Great Lakes, with a maximum depth of 406 meters (1,332 feet). By most measures, it is the healthiest of all the Great Lakes.

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Lakes can be affected by pollution from various sources such as agricultural runoff, urban development, and recreational activities. High levels of bacteria, harmful algae blooms, and pollutants in the water can pose health risks to swimmers.

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“No swimming” signs: This one should go without saying. If there are “no swimming” signs posted near the waterway, don't enter it! Chances are, there are concealed hazards underwater that you may not notice from up above. If you see a sign posted, don't risk it—it's better to find somewhere more desirable to swim.

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