I first swam in Parker Canyon Lake in September 2, 2012 when I was training for an 8k swim in Lake Mead in October called Slam the Dam (which was the last year the event was held). In the late summer and early fall, Parker Canyon water temperature remains in the low to mid-70s due to its 5,400′ elevation and average depth of 82 ft. That makes it an idea place to train – one of my favorite lakes in Arizona!
I manage a Facebook group called Southern Arizona Open Water Swimmers, and we often get together for swims at Parker Canyon and Patagonia Lake State Park. It’s always a wonderful group of swimmers, ranging from beginners to experienced Ironman triathletes.
We often follow our swim with a run/walk around the lake on a beautiful 5.5 mile trail. A few areas are tricky to navigate, but in general it’s a very well-maintained trail, and views of the lake are stunning!
After our 2 mile swim on July 14 – Leanne Fahlgren, Stefanie Brown and Kathleen Bober. Water temperature 76F.
Before our 2 mile swim on October 8 – Lonnie Lominac, Devi Dearmon-Moore, and Kathleen Bober. Water temperature 66F.