Appalachian Ski Mountain Lake, located in Boone, North Carolina, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, completed in 1981, is classified as an Earth dam with a hydraulic height of 40 feet and a structural height of 42 feet. The lake has a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1.4 acres, providing a picturesque setting for skiing and other outdoor activities.
Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Appalachian Ski Mountain Lake is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure public safety. The dam has a high hazard potential, but its condition was assessed as fair during the last inspection in January 2019. Despite this, the lake remains a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.
With a drainage area of 90 square miles and a maximum discharge of 528 cubic feet per second, the reservoir plays a vital role in regulating water flow in the region. While there are no associated locks or spillways, the dam's design and construction reflect a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the structure and protecting the surrounding environment. Appalachian Ski Mountain Lake stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and outdoor recreation in the Appalachian Mountains.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
160 |
River Or Stream |
Payne Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Drainage Area |
90 |
Nid Storage |
24 |
Structural Height |
42 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
42 |
Watauga River Near Sugar Grove
|
62cfs |
Yadkin River At Patterson
|
24cfs |
Elk Creek At Elkville
|
42cfs |
South Fork New River Near Jefferson
|
218cfs |
Johns River At Arneys Store
|
173cfs |
Reddies River At North Wilkesboro
|
67cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Honey Bear Campground
|
||
Goshen Creek
|
||
Old Johns River Road
|
||
Price Park Campground
|
||
Julian Price - Blue Ridge Parkway
|
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Julian Price
|