Lake Powell Edition: 4 ways to stay cool on the lake
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You will find that we reference Lake Powell a lot (it is one of our favorite destinations!). We have learned many things over the years and want to share our experience with others. In our first season of the Wonders of Water podcast, we share some of the unexpected twists and turns of lake life – many of which have happened at Lake Powell. You can listen here and either learn from us or laugh at us!
Embarking on a Lake Powell houseboat trip promises endless adventure and breathtaking scenery, but the desert climate brings scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months; however, don't let the Arizona heat deter you from enjoying this spectacular destination! Whether you're planning your trip for a summer staycation or a weekend of exploration, staying cool is essential to maximizing your adventure. Here are some tips to help you beat the heat.
Stay Hydrated
During the summer months, temperatures at Lake Powell can soar well into the triple digits, making hydration a top priority. It is easy to forget to drink water when you are around others and near a body of water. You can easily become distracted with conversation, drinking other beverages, or occupied with activities. I recommend taking a drinking canister with you to help you monitor your water consumption. Keep water near you at all times. If you go out for a jet ski ride, throw your water in the storage compartment. If you are going on a boat ride, take enough water for everyone on the boat.
Make sure everyone in your group drinks plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration. Pack your cooler with all kinds of ice-cold beverages to enjoy throughout your trip. Drinks like lemonade and other powder mixes like Liquid IV, Pedialyte, and Nuun Sport are great options for making water consumption less monotonous. Consider bringing a GE Ice Maker. Who doesn’t like the luxury of ice in their drink on a hot summer day?
Find Shade
Whether you are just on the water during the day or staying for a week on the lake, find a spot with natural shade to provide relief from the midday sun. Use the cooler temperatures of the morning and evening to explore the lake without the worry of overheating. Make sure you stay aware of your body temperature, and if you have a houseboat, take a seat inside– it is still a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery! You can also take advantage of the top deck where there is typically a canopy for you to enjoy. Find shade wherever you can, whether it's under a boat bimini or a natural canopy of trees.
The summer season also brings clear skies and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for water activities, so maximize your coverage by wearing protective gear like hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Don’t forget that sometimes the best way to beat the heat is to take a nap during the hottest part of the day. On Lake Powell, there is nothing better than a siesta, after all, you’re on lake time!
Get in the water!
When you’re not napping, jump into the cool waters to escape the heat. Stay in the water or wear a damp shirt to keep cool while enjoying water activities like kayaking or jet skiing. Knowing that you will be on or near the water, take some fun water toys to boost your fun at the lake. Here are some of the things we have used.
Lounging chairs – great to enjoy conversations with people on the trip with you. Get a cold drink, take a koozie to keep your drink cool too!
Paddle board – This is a great way to get some exercise or lay back and relax. You can always take a dip in the water.
Water slide – Take advantage of the houseboat water slide! This is a great way to have fun, laugh a bit, and feel like a kid!
Lily Pad – Lily pads are becoming a very popular water accessory for those who frequent the lake. The floating mat offers a variety of ways for individuals and families to play on the water.
Getting in the water doesn’t always mean the lake. Take advantage of the showers on your houseboat to cool off after a day of fun in the sun. A quick rinse can help you stay comfortable and refreshed.
As a reminder, please be careful in and around the water. Whenever you are in the lake, you should wear a life jacket or have a floatation device. Please refer to the safety precautions and recommendations of the local authorities to ensure you have a great time at the lake!
Staying Cool at Night!
If you have a houseboat, you can rest peacefully knowing they are typically equipped with AC units. If you are like Rick and myself – we tend to sleep on the upper deck so we can look up at the stars and night sky. It is gorgeous! If you opt for the upper deck or if you are sleeping on your boat, here are couple of creative ways we have found to alleviate the evening heat. You can wear damp clothing and allow the wind to keep you cool while you sleep. You can take a quick dip (make sure you have a companion or spotter). You can keep a misting bottle near to spray yourself as needed.
A Lake Powell houseboat adventure is an experience like no other, offering unparalleled beauty and thrilling opportunities for fun. By staying cool and hydrated, you can fully enjoy everything this stunning destination has to offer, whether you're cruising the lake's waters or relaxing onshore. With our tips and insights, you're well-equipped to beat the heat and create unforgettable memories during your Lake Powell getaway. Happy adventuring and let us know what other things you have done to stay cool!
While this is not an exhaustive list of ways to stay cool, they are things we have done when we visited Lake Powell. As there are many medical conditions that are impacted by the sun and being outdoors, please consult your physician for things that are appropriate for you.
Additional Note for the Winter Months
If you are looking for a lake experience that does not involve actually going in the water, the winter season is a great option. You won’t have traffic of summer boaters and the houseboat rentals are typically discounted in the off-season.
From December to March, water temperatures are pretty cold…now if you are from Michigan and other states where you are used to cold lake temperatures, Arizona winter months may be more comfortable and/or ideal for you.
While staying cool may not be as much of a concern in winter, it's still essential to be prepared for fluctuations in weather. Prepare for rain regardless of the season and don’t forget to pack that wet suit just in case your skis beg you to carve out some wake in those calm waters!