Rapidly declining water levels in Lake Powell close more boat ramps

Bullfrog Bay in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (Lake Powell). Photo: Ashley Papavero

BULLFROG, Utah — The historic low water levels at Lake Powell are forcing the National Park Service (NPS) to close Bullfrog North Ramp and Halls Crossing Ramp to all motorized vessels.

The closure at Bullfrog North is effective immediately. Halls Crossing will close on Wednesday, July 21.

Additionally, NPS said it is likely there will be periods of time as soon as late July when there are no open boat ramps in South Lake Powell. However, Stateline Auxiliary Ramp, located between Stateline and Wahweap boat ramps, should continue to provide access as long as the lake stays about 3450 feet.

As of July 14, Lake Powell’s water elevation is 3557.25 feet. The lake has dropped more than 51 feet from a year ago.

NPS is planning to construct temporary ramp extensions at Bullfrog North to provide 80 more feet of surface area for vessel launching and retrieval. Once the ramp extensions are built, NPS said there will be available access until the lake drops below 3525 feet.

“Boaters should be aware that temporary full or partial ramp closures will continue to occur before and during ramp extension construction activities,” the NPS press release says. “The park has already installed temporary boilerplate ramp extensions at Wahweap Main Ramp, but additional action is needed to maintain boater access throughout the summer and fall seasons.”

Houseboats and all other motorized vessels may continue to launch from the spur at Bullfrog Main Ramp. However, NPS sources have confirmed that multiple boats have had trouble launching and retrieving there recently.

There is no planned construction at Halls Crossing Ramp as it cannot be extended because of the area’s topography. It will remain closed to motorized vessels until lake levels rise to a sufficient level.

NPS urges all visitors to check the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area boat launch webpage for updates on the status of boat ramps (here).