Horseshoe Lake, also known as Lake Miriam, is a state-regulated body of water located in Huerfano County, Colorado.
Wind
Humidity
This picturesque lake serves as a popular spot for recreational activities, offering opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. The dam that creates Horseshoe Lake was completed in 1961 and stands at a height of 24 feet, with a structural height of 27 feet and a length of 4180 feet.
With a storage capacity of 3750 acre-feet, Horseshoe Lake covers a surface area of 172 acres and is fed by the Cucharas River. The dam is classified as an earth dam and features an uncontrolled spillway, with a maximum discharge capacity of 373 cubic feet per second. Despite being assessed as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is rated as fair, with the last inspection conducted in August 2020.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Horseshoe Lake not only for its recreational value but also for its role in wildlife conservation and water storage. The lake's location in the scenic Colorado landscape, along with its regulated status and structural features, make it an intriguing spot for those interested in the management and maintenance of water resources. As a significant component of the local ecosystem, Horseshoe Lake provides a valuable opportunity to study the intersection of human development and environmental stewardship in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
4180 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
CUCHARAS RIVER-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
172 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
3750 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
27 |