Changing Lake Levels

 

Lake levels are changing - your adventure isn't. Open access and a wide range of recreation continue all season long

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.

Learn more about lake level information at the Bureau of Reclamation's Upper Colorado River HydroData. The Bureau of Reclamation provides more information about the Upper Colorado River Basin and the operations of Glen Canyon Dam, including the 24-month predictions.

Lake Powell Current Water Level

 

Lake Powell Elevation (5/13/2026)

3526.55 ft

 

Lake Level Effects to Launch Ramps and Services

Location	Availability			Minimum Safe Elevation	More Information
	Houseboats	Small Motorized Vessels	Non-motorized Vessels
Wahweap Main Launch Ramp	Closed	Closed	Launch at your own risk	3545 ft	Ramp closed to launch/retrieval of motorized vessels. Open to paddlecraft only.
Wahweap Stateline Launch Ramp	Closed	Closed	Launch at your own risk	3567 ft	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	Closed	3515 ft	Open to motorized vessels. Plate mats needed at 3524 ft to launch. Prepare all boats in the Stateline Main Ramp parking lot before accessing the auxiliary ramp.
Castle Rock Cut	Closed	Closed	Closed	3583 ft	Navigation buoys are placed at 3590 ft.
Antelope Point Public Launch Ramp	Closed	Closed	Launch at your own risk	3588 ft	Public Ramp closed to motorized vessels. Available for paddlecraft launching only.
Antelope Point Business Ramp	Closed	Closed	Closed	3535 ft	This ramp is not directly managed by Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Limited launch available. Customers should contact Antelope Point Valet Services to inquire about their specific vessel(s), 928 645-5900 ext. 5032.
Halls Crossing Launch Ramp	Closed	Closed	Closed	3557 ft	Closed to all vessels.
UDOT Ferry	Closed	Closed	Closed	3575 ft	The ferry is not anticipated to operate until further notice. The ferry does not operate if lake levels drop below 3575 ft. More information regarding the Lake Powell Ferry provided by UDOT.
UDOT Launch Ramps	Closed	Closed	Closed	3575 ft	Ramps closed to private launching.
Bullfrog North Launch Ramp	Launch at your own risk	Launch at your own risk	Launch at your own risk	3525 ft	Due to the drop off at the end of the ramp traffic can access the west lane only. There is a steel plate at the bottom. Best suited to launch vessels less than 25 ft.
Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp	Closed	Closed	Launch at your own risk	3578 ft	Open to all vessels when lake level is over 3578 ft. Prepare your boats at the Bullfrog Visitor Center parking lot and the Old Marina Store asphalt parking lot.
Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp Spur	Closed	Closed	Launch at your own risk	3549 ft	Ramp closed to launch/retrieval of motorized vessels. Open to paddlecraft only.
Stanton Creek Primitive Area	Closed	Closed	Launch at your own risk		Primitive rock and sand beach. Launch area is inoperable. Launch at your own risk
Hite Launch Ramp	Closed	Closed	Closed	3650 ft	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	Visit at your own risk	Visit at your own risk	Visit at your own risk	3548 ft	At 3548 ft docks are disconnected from land and relocated to deeper water. Bathrooms remain open to boaters. Small boats can beach to access trail. Caution is advised to avoid quicksand and unstable soils.

 

Lake Powell Launch Ramps, Marinas, and More

 

Wahweap Marina - May 5, 2026 - lake level 3526

NPS

The Cut - May 5, 2026 - lake level 3526

NPS

Antelope Point Marina - May 5, 2026 - lake level 3526

NPS

Bullfrog Marina - May 5, 2026 - lake level 3526

NPS

Halls Crossing Marina - May 5, 2026 - lake level 3526

NPS

Hite - May 6, 2026 - lake level 3526

NPS

 

Lake infrastructure projects

Project Updates

 

Spring Construction at North Wash Rafting Take-out

North Wash is a primitive, dirt take-out for rafters who have come down the Colorado River through Cataract Canyon. It is not intended for launch or retrieval of any other vessels. Beginning March 31, 2026, the take-out at North Wash is undergoing construction 

As of May 13, 2026, the State of Utah reports:

• Because of delays with freight and delivery of the articulating block mat, the ramp is still nearly complete.
• Due to the lack of safety barriers and the length and slope of the ramp, vehicles are not allowed to access the ramp until the installation is complete.
• Until then, you can carry out your own watercraft at your own risk. We appreciate your patience and will provide an update ASAP.
• Vehicles are not allowed on the ramp at this time. Boats may be carried out manually at your own risk.

The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation will provide updates at the link above as construction progresses.

 

 

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.

• 

  Pin Anchoring

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