Bolts Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Bolts Lake in Minturn, Colorado, is a private fish and wildlife pond located along the Eagle River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The Earth dam, completed in 1882, stands at 22 feet high and has a storage capacity of 218 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition since its last inspection in 1994.

This picturesque lake covers 9 acres with a surface area and serves as a vital habitat for local wildlife. While its primary purpose is for fish and wildlife conservation, Bolts Lake also provides recreational opportunities for visitors. With the surrounding natural beauty of Eagle County, climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate the ecological significance and historical charm of this hidden gem.

Despite its age, Bolts Lake continues to be regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. Its uncontrolled spillway and maximum discharge of 2795 cubic feet per second ensure the safety and stability of the dam structure. For those interested in water resource management and the impact of climate change on aquatic ecosystems, Bolts Lake offers a fascinating case study in sustainable conservation efforts within a private ownership setting.

Year Completed

1882

Dam Length

126

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

EAGLE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

218

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.