Hidden Lake

SEELEY BROOK· Wayne, Pennsylvania· Built 1966· Earth· 17 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Hidden Lake is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 17 ft (taller than 35.6% in PA)
Dam Length504 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage343 acre-ft
Normal Storage186 acre-ft
Surface Area39 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Year Completed1966 (60 years old)
NID IDPA00299

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: December 3, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

HIDDEN LAKE ESTATES P.O.A.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hidden Lake?

Hidden Lake is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Hidden Lake?

Hidden Lake is owned by HIDDEN LAKE ESTATES P.O.A. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hidden Lake built?

Hidden Lake was completed in 1966, making it 60 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Hidden Lake?

Hidden Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Hidden Lake?

Hidden Lake has a dam height of 17 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Hidden Lake last inspected?

Hidden Lake was last inspected on December 3, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.