News Release

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Working With Partners to Sustain Lake Access Through 2026

Date: February 27, 2026

 Page, Ariz. — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is preparing for projected low water levels at Lake Powell in 2026. In collaboration with concessioners and state partners, park staff are committed to sustaining visitor access and high-quality services throughout the upcoming season. While lower lake levels are expected, the park and its partners are actively implementing strategies to maintain access, and lake access is not anticipated to be lost this summer.

The National Park Service has secured funding and is in final planning stages for long-term ramp projects at Antelope Point Public, Stanton Creek at Bullfrog, and Hite North. These ramps are designed to function at lower lake elevations but will not be completed before summer 2026 due to their size and complexity. In the interim, the park is coordinating with Aramark to extend the Stateline Auxiliary Ramp.

In the Hite area, the state of Utah is collaborating with the park to construct a temporary ramp at North Wash to support river rafters.

Boaters planning to launch or retrieve vessels later this season should anticipate increased congestion at Stateline Auxiliary Ramp, particularly if water levels continue to decline. Visitors are encouraged to plan additional time for launching and retrieval and to monitor changing conditions. 

Concessioners Aramark and Antelope Point Holdings are developing contingency plans to maintain essential services, including potential marina and infrastructure adjustments. Slip renters and houseboat customers will receive direct communication as plans are finalized.

Lake Powell remains open for water-based recreation opportunities. Visitors should check current water levels, ramp status, and operational updates before traveling. Updates will also be posted on the park’s social media accounts.

Up-to-date information on lake levels is available www.nps.gov/glca/learn/changing-lake-levels.htm, and the status of current park projects, including ramp extensions, can be found at https://www.nps.gov/glca/learn/news/project-updates.htm.
 

-NPS- 

 
More park information is available on each park’s website: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area or Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Office of Communications, Public Affairs
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Rainbow Bridge National Monument
National Park Service
[e-mail]