Muddy Pass Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Muddy Pass Lake in Jackson County, Colorado, is a picturesque reservoir nestled along Muddy Creek and managed by the USDA Forest Service for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1969, this Earth dam stands at 17 feet high, with a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 22 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 58 acre-feet and a surface area of 11 acres, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking water-based activities.

Despite its low hazard potential, Muddy Pass Lake's dam is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement mechanisms in place to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The reservoir's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second. The last inspection in September 2010 rated its condition as "Not Rated," prompting a moderate risk assessment (level 3) without specific risk management measures identified. As a water resource and climate enthusiast, exploring Muddy Pass Lake provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the intersection of infrastructure, natural beauty, and regulatory oversight in managing water resources for recreational enjoyment.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

219

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

MUDDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

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.