Aspen Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Aspen Lake, located in Zion National Park, Utah, is a privately owned recreational reservoir regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights.


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Summary

With a capacity of 120 acre-feet and a maximum hydraulic height of 20 feet, the earth dam structure stands at 25 feet tall and spans 150 feet in length. The lake is fed by Fife Creek and serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking leisure activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Despite its serene surroundings, Aspen Lake poses a significant hazard potential, prompting biennial inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," with emergency action plans and risk management measures yet to be fully implemented. With a drainage area of 5.8 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 100 acre-feet, the lake's recreational appeal is complemented by its crucial role in water resource management within the region.

Aspen Lake's picturesque setting in Iron County, Utah, offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. While the dam's risk potential warrants careful monitoring and preparedness, the lake's role in providing recreational opportunities and supporting the local ecosystem underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

150

River Or Stream

FIFE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

5.8

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.