The effects of the continuing drought can be seen in the wide white band that encircles Lake Powell. When full, Powell Lake is reported to be 186 miles long with a meandering shoreline of 1,960 miles; that's longer then the United States whole western coastline! The lake's water is a beautiful blue surrounded by gentle curves of rock in shades of muted white to earthy red. And, it is all surrounded by an inhospitable looking landscape.