The dam creating the lake is 97 meters high and was completed in 1974.
The water surface elevation is approximately 500 meters above sea level.
Lake Tarnița is fed by the Someșul Cald River, which originates in the Apuseni Natural Park.
The lake is home to diverse fish species, including trout and perch, managed by local angling associations.
The reservoir's total storage capacity is approximately 74 million cubic meters of water.
Lake Tarnița is an artificial reservoir located in the Gilău Mountains of Cluj County, Romania, created by an arched dam on the Someșul Cald River. Spanning approximately 215 hectares, the lake reaches depths of up to 70 meters in its deepest sections. It serves as a primary water source for the city of Cluj-Napoca. The shoreline is heavily forested and characterized by steep, rugged terrain that limits easy access points. The reservoir functions as a pumped-storage hydroelectric power plant facility. It is a popular location for recreational activities including kayaking, swimming, and sport fishing. The lake environment remains largely undeveloped with minimal permanent infrastructure on its banks.
The dam viewpoint area provides a panoramic overview of the lake's serpentine shape.
Bring non-slip footwear as the terrain around the shoreline is often steep and rocky.
Water temperatures remain low even in peak summer due to the depth and mountain runoff.
Rent a kayak or boat to access remote coves that are inaccessible by foot.
Attempting to drive personal cars to the water's edge on unpaved, narrow forest paths.
Practice 'leave no trace' principles; noise pollution is discouraged to maintain the local ecosystem.
