Appalachian Ski Mountain Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Appalachian Ski Mountain Lake, located in Boone, North Carolina, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

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
       
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.