Glory Hole: Lake Berryessa's Unusual Spillway

Lake Berryessa, nestled in the Vaca Mountains east of Napa Valley, is a popular destination known for its recreational opportunities and stunning natural beauty. The lake itself was formed by the construction of the Monticello Dam on Putah Creek in the 1950s, becoming the largest lake in Napa County. While Lake Berryessa offers a variety of activities, it's perhaps most famous for its unusual spillway, known as the Glory Hole. The Glory Hole is a large, open bell-mouth spillway, essentially a giant drain, designed to manage excess water when the lake reaches its maximum capacity. Officially called the Morning Glory Spillway, the Glory Hole is 72 feet in diameter at its opening, narrowing down to approximately 28 feet. When the lake level rises above 440 feet, water begins to spill dramatically into the Glory Hole, creating a mesmerizing vortex as it plunges 200 feet down into Putah Creek. This impressive display of engineering and natural forces has made the Glory Hole a significant attraction, drawing visitors from around the world, especially when the spillway is active. The spillway's operation is a relatively rare event, occurring only when heavy rainfall and snowmelt cause the lake to reach capacity. The last time the Glory Hole was active was in early 2025, drawing large crowds. Before that, it spilled in 2017 and 2019. The rarity of the event adds to its allure, making it a must-see for those fortunate enough to witness it. A line of buoys keeps boaters and swimmers a safe distance from the drain. Lake Berryessa's history is intertwined with the construction of the Monticello Dam and the subsequent flooding of the Berryessa Valley. The town of Monticello, a thriving agricultural community, was submerged to create the reservoir. While the town is now underwater, its legacy lives on in the name of the dam and the rich agricultural lands that the lake now helps to irrigate. The Solano Project, encompassing the Monticello Dam, Lake Berryessa, and associated water distribution systems, provides water and hydroelectric power to the North Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. Beyond the Glory Hole, Lake Berryessa offers a wide range of recreational activities. The lake's warm waters, reaching up to 75 degrees in the summer, make it ideal for water sports such as boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and swimming. Quiet coves provide opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Fishing is also a popular activity, with the lake home to both cold- and warm-water fish species, including rainbow trout, bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. Several resorts and marinas around the lake provide boat rentals, launching facilities, and other amenities. For those who prefer land-based activities, Lake Berryessa offers hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty. The surrounding hills provide opportunities for bird watching, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. The Bureau of Reclamation manages several day-use areas, including Oak Shores and Smittle Creek, offering access to the lake and its recreational facilities. Camping is available at concession-operated recreation areas around the lake. Lake Berryessa also plays a crucial role in flood control and water management for the region. The reservoir helps to regulate the flow of Putah Creek, reducing the risk of flooding in downstream areas. The Solano County Water Agency manages the water levels in the lake, balancing the needs of recreation, irrigation, and flood control. While the Glory Hole is a remarkable sight, it's essential to remember the potential dangers associated with it. The powerful currents created by the spillway can be hazardous, and visitors should always heed warning signs and stay within designated safe areas. A tragic incident in 1997, when a woman was pulled into the spillway and died, serves as a stark reminder of the forces at play. Visiting Lake Berryessa and witnessing the Glory Hole is an unforgettable experience. It's a chance to appreciate the power of nature, the ingenuity of engineering, and the beauty of the California landscape. Whether you're interested in water sports, hiking, fishing, or simply taking in the scenery, Lake Berryessa offers something for everyone. The lake is located approximately 70 miles northeast of San Francisco and 40 miles west of Sacramento. The nearest towns are Napa to the southwest and Winters to the east. Access is via State Highways 121 and 128. As you plan your visit, remember to check the lake's water level and the status of the Glory Hole. While the spillway's operation is not guaranteed, witnessing this extraordinary phenomenon is well worth the effort. Lake Berryessa is a testament to the interplay between human engineering and the natural world, offering a unique and memorable experience for all who visit.