Lake Powell Water Level

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Powell Water Levels and Personal Watercraft Restrictions

Feb. 18, 2003

Boating conditions on Lake Powell remain good despite low water caused by drought in the Colorado River drainage. The reservoir is still more than 400 feet deep at the dam and about 150 miles long and so there is plenty of water to boat, ski and fish. Houseboats are available for rent and powerboats of all sizes can be launched and can navigate on the lake.

The Stateline ramp at Wahweep Marina and the main ramp at Hite have been closed because of the low water. An alternate launching site is being developed at Hite and work is underway to extend both ramps. Launching conditions are good on other developed ramps. It is extremely difficult or impossible to launch at undeveloped sites on the lake.

The Castle Rock Cutoff and some other shortcuts are no longer usable and lake water does not extend as far back into the canyons. On the flip side, there is more beach exposed for camping and playing.

It's always important to use caution and watch for boating hazards at Lake Powell, regardless of the water level. Different rocks become hazardous at different water levels, but hazards always exist. Most are well marked by the National Park Service.

Fishing is expected to be very good at Lake Powell this year. Striped bass and smallmouth bass fishing becomes good in late March, becomes red hot in April and May, and continues good through the summer.

Personal watercraft restriction at Lake Powell

Personal watercraft will probably be allowed back on Lake Powell this summer. After extensive study and debate, the National Park Service has proposed a plan to allow personal watercraft use on most of the lake under new restrictions. The plan is now going through a public comment period. Park officials hope it will be finalized and implemented by early summer. However, there could be delays and it is still possible that the plan will be rejected and the total ban continued.

Powell Water Levels and Personal Watercraft Restrictions

Personal watercraft restriction at Lake Powell

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