Changing Lake Levels

 

Left image
Lone Rock surrounded by campers and vehicles parked in the sand amidst a superbloom of desert evening primrose on April 29, 2023. Lake elevation 3524.50'.
Credit: NPS

Right image
June 21, 2023. Lone Rock is once again a beach, surrounded by water and some vehicles parked on the beach to the right. Lake elevation 3579.22'.
Credit: NPS

 

Glen Canyon is home to dynamic and constantly changing landscape.

Since 2001, declining water levels due to climate change and 20 years of drought have reshaped Lake Powell’s shoreline. Today we are experiencing low lake levels and their effects on boat ramp access points, on-lake facilities, and the landscape.

• Significant changes to the shoreline will affect usability of boat launch ramps throughout the year, especially in warmer months. We ask visitors to plan ahead and prepare for longer lines, limited parking and congestion at boat ramps and docks. To relieve launch ramp congestion, please ready your boat at a nearby parking lot before driving to launch ramps. View the current status of your preferred launch destination before heading to the lake.
• On Lake Powell, boaters should be aware that as water levels change, channels may narrow leading to increased boat congestion. Boaters should exercise caution in all areas of Lake Powell. Availability of restrooms, floating walkways, pump out, fuel and convenient stations may vary. View the current status of on-lake facilities below.

There are many new places to explore as water levels change, and the scenic shoreline is always evolving. Check current lake levels to plan ahead and prepare for your visit to Glen Canyon. Learn more about boating safety and make every trip to Lake Powell a safe and enjoyable one.

For real time lake level information, view the Bureau of Reclamation's Upper Colorado River HydroData. To learn more about the Upper Colorado River Basin and the operations of Glen Canyon Dam, including the 24-month predictions, visit the Bureau of Reclamation's website.

Lake Powell Current Water Level

 

Lake Powell Elevation (4/17/2025)

3558.30 ft

 

Lake Level Effects to Launch Ramps and Services

Location	Availability			More Information
		Houseboats	Small Motorized Vessels		Non-motorized Vessels
Wahweap Main Launch Ramp	Available	Available	Unavailable	Open to all motorized vessels. Closed to paddlecraft.
Wahweap Auxiliary Launch Ramp	Inoperable	Inoperable	Inoperable	Ramp closed to all vessels.
Wahweap Stateline Launch Ramp	Inoperable	Inoperable	Launch at own risk	Ramp closed to launch/retrieval of motorized vessels. Drive halfway down the ramp to access the Stateline Auxiliary Ramp. Open to paddlecraft only.
Wahweap Stateline Auxiliary Launch Ramp	Available	Available	Unavailable	Open to motorized vessels. Prepare all boats in the Stateline Main Ramp parking lot before accessing the auxiliary ramp.
Castle Rock Cut	Navigate at your own risk	Navigate at your own risk	Navigate at your own risk	Navigable for all vessels at elevation 3583' and above.
Antelope Point Public Launch Ramp	Inoperable	Inoperable	Available	Public Ramp closed to motorized vessels. Available for paddlecraft launching only. Extension not possible due to topography. Switchback in place to remedy steepness of access to the marina.
Antelope Point Business Ramp	Available	Available	Available	This ramp is open for all vessels, including houseboats. Interested customers should contact Antelope Point Valet Services to inquire about their specific vessel(s), 928 645-5900 ext. 5032.
Halls Crossing Launch Ramp	Available	Available	Available	Open to all vessels.
UDOT Ferry and Launch Ramps	Inoperable	Inoperable	Inoperable	Ramps closed. More information regarding the Lake Powell Ferry provided by UDOT.
Bullfrog North Launch Ramp	Available	Available	Available	Open to all vessels. View flow of traffic and area map. A courtesy dock is available at the ramp.
Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp	Inoperable	Inoperable	Launch at own risk	Open to all vessels when lake level is over 3578'. Prepare your boats at the Bullfrog Visitor Center parking lot and the Old Marina Store asphalt parking lot.
Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp Spur	Inoperable	Launch at own risk	Launch at own risk	Open to all vessels up to 25ft.
Stanton Creek Primitive Area	Inoperable	Inoperable	Launch at own risk	Primitive rock and sand beach. Launch area is inoperable. Launch at your own risk
Hite Ramp	Inoperable	Inoperable	Unavailable	Hite Launch Ramp out of water. Lake Powell does not reach Hite at this time. The road to Hite from Hwy 95 is closed.
Rainbow Bridge National Monument	Available	Available	Available	Floating docks, walkways, and restrooms have been re-anchored at the back of the canyon providing access to the Rainbow Bridge trail. Approximately 1.2-mile hike to the observation area at the bridge. Concession operated boat tours may be available. Hiking permits around Navajo Mountain from Navajo Parks & Recreation.

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Recreate Safely at Lake Powell

• 

  Lake Recreational Water Advisory

  Take care of yourself when you recreate on the beaches or in the waters of Lake Powell.

• 

  Boating

  Lake Powell is a premier location for boating opportunities, whether in a luxury houseboat or small fishing skiff.

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  Houseboat Staking

  How should I properly anchor my houseboat on Lake Powell? Why can't I use stakes?