Lake Chelan At Purple Point At Stehekin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lake Chelan at Purple Point in Stehekin, WA is a popular recreational area that has a rich history and unique hydrology.


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Summary

The lake is over 50 miles long and is fed by snowpack from the surrounding mountains, including the North Cascades. The lake's surface flow is primarily from the Stehekin River, which runs through the valley and into the lake. The snowpack providers for the lake include the North Cascades National Park and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The area was historically used by the Native American tribes who fished and hunted in the area. Today, the lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping. The area also supports some agriculture, including orchards and vineyards.

Reservoir Details

Elevation Of Reservoir Water Surface Above Datum, Ft 24hr Change 0.09%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 1,084.62 ft
2023-03-31
Maximum 1,099.55 ft
2020-07-21
Average 1,092 ft
Dam_Height 33
Hydraulic_Height 57
Drainage_Area 952
Year_Completed 1927
Nid_Storage 676100
Hazard_Potential Significant
Structural_Height 66
River_Or_Stream Chelan River
Foundations Rock, Soil
Surface_Area 32980
Outlet_Gates Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Tainter (radial) - 8
Dam_Length 490
Primary_Dam_Type Gravity
Nid_Height 66
       
Seasonal Comparison
Elevation Of Reservoir Water Surface Above Datum, Ft Levels

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.