It experiences a continental climate, which means it has hot summers and cold winters. The average annual temperature is around 46°F, with average high temperatures in the summer reaching around 80°F and average lows in winter dipping to around 5°F. The Missouri River runs through Bismarck, and the city's drinking water comes from this source. The water contains a variety of hydrology constituents, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment. Outdoor recreation opportunities in Bismarck include hiking and biking along the river, fishing, and boating. There are also several parks and golf courses in the city.
Bismarck receives approximately 449mm of rain per year, with humidity levels near 81% and air temperatures averaging around 6°C. Bismarck has a plant hardyness factor of 4, meaning plants and agriculture in this region thrive during a short period during spring and early summer. Most plants will die off during the colder winter months.