- Wahweap Main Launch Ramp at Lake Powell becomes inoperable next week due to low water levels.
- Rainbow Bridge dock will be moved Aug. 25 to maintain access despite dropping levels.
- Boaters are advised to check conditions; Lake Powell is 31% full amid ongoing drought.
WAHWEAP, Ariz. — A major boat ramp just south of the Utah-Arizona border will become inoperable next week, while crews also plan to move a boat dock at Rainbow Bridge National Monument, as Lake Powell water levels continue to drop.
The Wahweap Main Launch Ramp will be inoperable starting Monday because of dropping water levels, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area officials said on Thursday. It's one of the remaining ramps available for small motorized vessels, while several others have already closed because of water conditions.
The Rainbow Bridge National Monument boat dock in Utah is one of the docks that will remain open, but only because crews plan to move the ramp to deeper water on Aug. 25. Officials note that the change will end easy dock-to-trail access, but its restrooms will stay open.
"Boaters are responsible for knowing the minimum water depth required for their vessel and trailer. Before visiting, check the park website and social media channels for the most current ramp and dock status," park officials wrote in a statement.
The update comes as levels have fallen to a little over 3,552 feet elevation, approximately 30 feet below what levels were listed this time a year ago. Drought conditions this year have left the nation's second-largest reservoir 31% full.
There are still a few options for boaters despite the drop. The Wahweap Stateline Auxiliary, Antelope Point Business and Bullfrog North Launch ramps are currently available for small motorized vessels and houseboats. Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp Spur is also open, but only at the boaters' own risk.
People with nonmotorized vessels can use the Antelope Point Business and Bullfrog North Launch ramps, and are also permitted to launch from the Wahweap Stateline, Antelope Point Public, Bullfrog Main, Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp Spur and Stanton Creek Primitive Area at their own risk.
Rangers are "closely monitoring conditions" that will determine future access options, park officials added.
