Lake Powell sees lower water levels this year, cautions boat ramp users

LAKE POWELL, Utah (ABC4) — Officials say Lake Powell is experiencing pronounced water level changes and those water changes are likely to impact boat ramp users.

According to the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, decreases in water levels are becoming more noticeable. Currently, lake water elevation is 29 feet lower than this time last year.

It also appears that Lake Powell has experienced lower water levels throughout the 2025 Summer season than in previous years, according to water monitoring systems. In the 2023 season, Lake Powell’s water levels peaked on July 8th, at 3,584.68 feet. In 2024, the water levels peaked at 3,587.17 on July 10th.

In contrast, 2025 water levels peaked at 3,571.83 feet on January 1st. Lake Powell did experience a slight increase in water levels in mid-June but has seen significantly lower levels throughout June and July.

Runoff projections from August of 2024 predicted that Lake Powell’s unregulated inflow, that is water running into Lake Powell from other water sources, would be 52% of the 30-year average in 2025.

Infrastructure like floating docks, walkways, and ramp extensions are likely to be impacted by the lower water levels. Officials say that the Halls Crossing Launch Ramp will likely be inoperable as soon as early August, and the functionality of all launch ramps will be affected.

They are also reminding boat operators that it is their responsibility to “know the minimum water depth required for launching your boat based on the characteristics of your vessel and trailer”.

Boaters can also check the operational status of different launch sites here.