Trinidad Lake Near Trinidad Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Trinidad Lake is a reservoir located near Trinidad, Colorado, and is currently the primary water source for the city of Trinidad.
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Summary
The lake was created in the 1970s by damming the Purgatoire River, and it has since become a popular recreational area for fishing, boating, and camping. The hydrology of the lake is dependent on both surface flow and snowpack providers, with the majority of the inflow coming from the nearby mountain ranges during the winter months. In addition to its recreational uses, the lake also plays a crucial role in supporting local agriculture, providing irrigation water to farms in the surrounding area. Despite its importance, Trinidad Lake has faced challenges in recent years due to drought conditions, highlighting the need for sustainable water management practices.
Reservoir Details
| Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change | 0.0% |
| Percent of Normal | 100% |
| Minimum |
6,164.25 ft
2013-07-28 |
| Maximum |
6,210.88 ft
2017-05-12 |
| Average | 6,180 ft |
| Dam_Height | 203 |
| Hydraulic_Height | 195 |
| Drainage_Area | 671 |
| Year_Completed | 1976 |
| Nid_Storage | 164930 |
| Structural_Height | 200 |
| River_Or_Stream | PURGATOIRE RIVER |
| Surface_Area | 1442 |
| Hazard_Potential | High |
| Outlet_Gates | Vertical Lift - 0 |
| Dam_Length | 6610 |
| Primary_Dam_Type | Earth |
| Nid_Height | 203 |
Seasonal Comparison
Reservoir Storage, Acre-Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Trinidad Dam
Trinidad Lake Near Trinidad