Beyond The Hoover: 10 Most Impressive Dams To See In The U.S.
Purity Gacheri
4 hours ago
Hydroelectric power is a significant source of energy in the US, providing approximately 6.5% of the country's power.
Dams not only generate power but also play a crucial role in flood prevention and providing access to clean water in dry areas.
There are many impressive dams in the US that attract tourists with their size, engineering feats, and surrounding scenery.
Hydroelectric power is a significant source of energy in the United States. Approximately 6.5% of power in the country comes from hydroelectric means, meaning that it’s rated among the top 5 power sources in the U.S. So how does the country produce so much power from water? That is because of its incredible dam system.
Dams are often an overlooked item in the economy. But besides generating power, they are useful in flood prevention and allow individuals in dry areas to access clean water. Besides that, some dams are attraction sites, making many people want to tour them.
Now, Hoover Dam is widely known as the largest and most impressive dam in the United States (and there are many epic Hoover Dam tours to take). But there are other amazing dams in the US that are just as attractive. Here is a list of the most impressive dams in the US to visit that are guaranteed to drop jaws with their size and feats of engineering and architecture.
Related: How To Visit The Hoover Dam & Grand Canyon In One Day
View The Beautiful Lake At The Theodore Roosevelt Dam
The Theodore Roosevelt Dam is one of the most impressive dams in the USA and was once the largest masonry dam in the world until Nagarjuna Sagar Dam in India took the title. It was first built in the 1900s to provide irrigation to the Arizona desert and make it more favorable for farming.
Initially, contractors used a Greco-Roman style that used large blocks that didn’t have a specific shape. But it was renovated and covered in concrete. Theodore Roosevelt Lake is a great site to stop and take pictures and enjoy views of the lake. Visitors can also check out the stunning bridge in this place.
Location: Arizona
When to visit: In the spring and fall
Take A Tour Of The Grand Coulee Dam
Grand Coulee Dam is a concrete dam and one of the largest dams in America. It is rated among the seven wonders of civil engineering in the US by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Its reservoir is around 150 miles to the north and can almost be seen from the Canadian border.
This dam was mainly constructed to offer irrigation and hydroelectric power. But because of its massive structure, it has become a tourist attraction. It is close to Banks Lakes, waterfalls, and the Windmill Garden, all of which create a beautiful site for travelers to explore.
Location: Washington
When to visit: between April and October
Witness The Tallest Dam In The US - The Oroville Dam
The Oroville Dam isn't just one of the most impressive dams in America; it's also home to some of the best archeological sites in the US. This 770-foot dam is considered the tallest in the United States and has been that way since it was constructed. It supplies water to more than 27 million Californians and seven hundred thousand acres of farmland.
Although it seems like a stand-alone attraction at first glance, the dam is part of a network of water management systems and tourist points. For this reason, many people prefer to go on a guided tour to explore several major points of this structure, and one of the best places to start is the Feather River Fish Hatchery, home to many Chinook salmons and steelhead trouts.
Location: California
When to visit: September through October
Stroll Along The Top Of Dworshak Dam For Epic Views Of The Surrounding Scenery
A visit to Dworshak Dam and Reservoir is a chance to explore the fantastic man-made wonders of Clearwater County. This is the tallest straight-axis concrete dam in North America, completed in 1973. It’s built on NORTH Fork Clearwater River and measures 717 feet high. It is an outdoor paradise offering a fantastic place for boating, swimming, camping, and hunting.
The visitor center is open all year, but individuals are offered dam tours daily during summer and on arrangement during the other months. Those taking the tour see fantastic views of the north tower and the top of the dam. Once done with the tour, one can stroll the dam’s top for incredible views of the reservoir and surrounding area.
Location: Idaho
When to visit: June and July
Explore Fort Peck Dam
Visiting Fort Peck Dam is easily considered one of the most unique tours in Montana. The dam is one of the largest hydraulically filled dams in the world, and with a height of 250.5 feet and a length of 21,026 feet, this dam generates lots of power. Initially, it was constructed to create jobs in the surrounding community. But it was later used to control floods and, with time, has become one of the best tourist attractions in Montana.
The dam covers 3.5 miles and spans across the Missouri River. It is an excellent place for fishing and taking awesome pictures. Don’t forget to walk on the spillway and visit the interpretive center. Once done checking out this massive dam, check out the wildlife in Fort Peck Lake.
Location: Montana
When to visit: May through June
Take Canyon Boat Tours At The Glen Canyon Dam
Glen Canyon Dam was constructed between 1956-1966 along the Colorado River. It forms Lake Powell, the largest water reservoir in the Southwestern United States. It was built to help manage water distribution and hydroelectricity generation.
Guests can learn about the history of the construction of this site at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center and can also check out the views of this incredible dam and the surrounding area. But for a fun experience, opt for the boat tours that take individuals around Lake Powell and allow them to admire the incredible dam from a unique angle. The lake is also surrounded by the famed Glen Canyon scenic landscapes and hiking routes.
Location: Arizona
When to visit: Mid-May to mid-September
Related: Here's How To Reach Utah's Famed Glen Canyon
Go Camping At The New Bullards Bar Dam
New Bullards Bar Dam is located on the North of Yuba River and forms the New Bullards Reservoir. The dam supplies water for irrigation, drinking, and hydroelectric power production. It is rated among the top 40 tallest dams in the world and offers many recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Here, guests can try water-skiing, fishing, or boating. The place is also well known for houseboats. However, there are several RV and tent camping sites around the surrounding lake and hiking and bike trails.
Location: California
When to visit: July and August
Experience Fishing & Water Skiing By The New Melones Dam
The New Melones Dam sits on the Stanislaus River and measures 191 meters tall and 480 meters long. It forms the New Melones Lake, the fourth-largest reservoir in California and one of the most scenic spots in the Sierra Nevadas.
A visit to this lake allows travelers to participate in fishing. On a good day, anglers can catch many rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and largemouth bass species. But besides fishing, this is also an excellent place for people who love water sports. Water skiers can spend their day in the lake as they enjoy the clear waters and fresh air.
Location: California
When to visit: May and June
Enjoy Breathtaking Views Of The Buffalo Bill Dam
The Buffalo Bill Dam was named in honor of Buffalo Bill Cody, a renowned American showman and frontiersman. It was constructed between 1905 and 1911 and was, at the time, among the largest dams in the US. It sits on the Shoshone River and forms a large reservoir called Buffalo Bill Reservoir.
This concrete gravity dam measures 305 in height and 1,560 feet in length. It is a good place for fishing, boating, and swimming. Don’t forget to pass by the visitor center for a chance to learn about the history and construction of this dam.
Location: Wyoming
When to visit: Anytime
Related: These Are The Oldest U.S. State Capitol Buildings (That Are Still In Operation)
Try Water Activities Around The Mansfield Dam
Texas is home to many swimming holes where one can take a refreshing dip. It also boasts one of the USA's largest dams; however, its access is limited for safety reasons, so swimming isn't allowed. Mansfield Dam is named after James Mansfield, who was the mayor at the time it was being constructed. It measures 919 feet long and 183 feet high and creates one of the largest reservoirs in Texas.
The dam occupies a surface area of 18,622 acres and holds water up to 2.0 km3. But guests can see it from Mansfield Dam Park, which offers many other outdoor activities. Boat ramps are popular here during peak boating season. However, individuals can enjoy other activities like scuba diving, biking, and hiking. They can also set up a picnic as the pack offers picnic tables and barbecue grills.
Location: Texas
When to visit: March, April, May, October
Purity Gacheri
4 hours ago
Hydroelectric power is a significant source of energy in the US, providing approximately 6.5% of the country's power.
Dams not only generate power but also play a crucial role in flood prevention and providing access to clean water in dry areas.
There are many impressive dams in the US that attract tourists with their size, engineering feats, and surrounding scenery.
Hydroelectric power is a significant source of energy in the United States. Approximately 6.5% of power in the country comes from hydroelectric means, meaning that it’s rated among the top 5 power sources in the U.S. So how does the country produce so much power from water? That is because of its incredible dam system.
Dams are often an overlooked item in the economy. But besides generating power, they are useful in flood prevention and allow individuals in dry areas to access clean water. Besides that, some dams are attraction sites, making many people want to tour them.
Now, Hoover Dam is widely known as the largest and most impressive dam in the United States (and there are many epic Hoover Dam tours to take). But there are other amazing dams in the US that are just as attractive. Here is a list of the most impressive dams in the US to visit that are guaranteed to drop jaws with their size and feats of engineering and architecture.
Related: How To Visit The Hoover Dam & Grand Canyon In One Day
View The Beautiful Lake At The Theodore Roosevelt Dam
The Theodore Roosevelt Dam is one of the most impressive dams in the USA and was once the largest masonry dam in the world until Nagarjuna Sagar Dam in India took the title. It was first built in the 1900s to provide irrigation to the Arizona desert and make it more favorable for farming.
Initially, contractors used a Greco-Roman style that used large blocks that didn’t have a specific shape. But it was renovated and covered in concrete. Theodore Roosevelt Lake is a great site to stop and take pictures and enjoy views of the lake. Visitors can also check out the stunning bridge in this place.
Location: Arizona
When to visit: In the spring and fall
Take A Tour Of The Grand Coulee Dam
Grand Coulee Dam is a concrete dam and one of the largest dams in America. It is rated among the seven wonders of civil engineering in the US by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Its reservoir is around 150 miles to the north and can almost be seen from the Canadian border.
This dam was mainly constructed to offer irrigation and hydroelectric power. But because of its massive structure, it has become a tourist attraction. It is close to Banks Lakes, waterfalls, and the Windmill Garden, all of which create a beautiful site for travelers to explore.
Location: Washington
When to visit: between April and October
Witness The Tallest Dam In The US - The Oroville Dam
The Oroville Dam isn't just one of the most impressive dams in America; it's also home to some of the best archeological sites in the US. This 770-foot dam is considered the tallest in the United States and has been that way since it was constructed. It supplies water to more than 27 million Californians and seven hundred thousand acres of farmland.
Although it seems like a stand-alone attraction at first glance, the dam is part of a network of water management systems and tourist points. For this reason, many people prefer to go on a guided tour to explore several major points of this structure, and one of the best places to start is the Feather River Fish Hatchery, home to many Chinook salmons and steelhead trouts.
Location: California
When to visit: September through October
Stroll Along The Top Of Dworshak Dam For Epic Views Of The Surrounding Scenery
A visit to Dworshak Dam and Reservoir is a chance to explore the fantastic man-made wonders of Clearwater County. This is the tallest straight-axis concrete dam in North America, completed in 1973. It’s built on NORTH Fork Clearwater River and measures 717 feet high. It is an outdoor paradise offering a fantastic place for boating, swimming, camping, and hunting.
The visitor center is open all year, but individuals are offered dam tours daily during summer and on arrangement during the other months. Those taking the tour see fantastic views of the north tower and the top of the dam. Once done with the tour, one can stroll the dam’s top for incredible views of the reservoir and surrounding area.
Location: Idaho
When to visit: June and July
Explore Fort Peck Dam
Visiting Fort Peck Dam is easily considered one of the most unique tours in Montana. The dam is one of the largest hydraulically filled dams in the world, and with a height of 250.5 feet and a length of 21,026 feet, this dam generates lots of power. Initially, it was constructed to create jobs in the surrounding community. But it was later used to control floods and, with time, has become one of the best tourist attractions in Montana.
The dam covers 3.5 miles and spans across the Missouri River. It is an excellent place for fishing and taking awesome pictures. Don’t forget to walk on the spillway and visit the interpretive center. Once done checking out this massive dam, check out the wildlife in Fort Peck Lake.
Location: Montana
When to visit: May through June
Take Canyon Boat Tours At The Glen Canyon Dam
Glen Canyon Dam was constructed between 1956-1966 along the Colorado River. It forms Lake Powell, the largest water reservoir in the Southwestern United States. It was built to help manage water distribution and hydroelectricity generation.
Guests can learn about the history of the construction of this site at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center and can also check out the views of this incredible dam and the surrounding area. But for a fun experience, opt for the boat tours that take individuals around Lake Powell and allow them to admire the incredible dam from a unique angle. The lake is also surrounded by the famed Glen Canyon scenic landscapes and hiking routes.
Location: Arizona
When to visit: Mid-May to mid-September
Related: Here's How To Reach Utah's Famed Glen Canyon
Go Camping At The New Bullards Bar Dam
New Bullards Bar Dam is located on the North of Yuba River and forms the New Bullards Reservoir. The dam supplies water for irrigation, drinking, and hydroelectric power production. It is rated among the top 40 tallest dams in the world and offers many recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Here, guests can try water-skiing, fishing, or boating. The place is also well known for houseboats. However, there are several RV and tent camping sites around the surrounding lake and hiking and bike trails.
Location: California
When to visit: July and August
Experience Fishing & Water Skiing By The New Melones Dam
The New Melones Dam sits on the Stanislaus River and measures 191 meters tall and 480 meters long. It forms the New Melones Lake, the fourth-largest reservoir in California and one of the most scenic spots in the Sierra Nevadas.
A visit to this lake allows travelers to participate in fishing. On a good day, anglers can catch many rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and largemouth bass species. But besides fishing, this is also an excellent place for people who love water sports. Water skiers can spend their day in the lake as they enjoy the clear waters and fresh air.
Location: California
When to visit: May and June
Enjoy Breathtaking Views Of The Buffalo Bill Dam
The Buffalo Bill Dam was named in honor of Buffalo Bill Cody, a renowned American showman and frontiersman. It was constructed between 1905 and 1911 and was, at the time, among the largest dams in the US. It sits on the Shoshone River and forms a large reservoir called Buffalo Bill Reservoir.
This concrete gravity dam measures 305 in height and 1,560 feet in length. It is a good place for fishing, boating, and swimming. Don’t forget to pass by the visitor center for a chance to learn about the history and construction of this dam.
Location: Wyoming
When to visit: Anytime
Related: These Are The Oldest U.S. State Capitol Buildings (That Are Still In Operation)
Try Water Activities Around The Mansfield Dam
Texas is home to many swimming holes where one can take a refreshing dip. It also boasts one of the USA's largest dams; however, its access is limited for safety reasons, so swimming isn't allowed. Mansfield Dam is named after James Mansfield, who was the mayor at the time it was being constructed. It measures 919 feet long and 183 feet high and creates one of the largest reservoirs in Texas.
The dam occupies a surface area of 18,622 acres and holds water up to 2.0 km3. But guests can see it from Mansfield Dam Park, which offers many other outdoor activities. Boat ramps are popular here during peak boating season. However, individuals can enjoy other activities like scuba diving, biking, and hiking. They can also set up a picnic as the pack offers picnic tables and barbecue grills.
Location: Texas
When to visit: March, April, May, October
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Summary
Hydroelectric power generates about 6.5% of US energy, with dams also contributing to flood prevention and water access. The Hoover Dam is famous but other impressive US dams include the Theodore Roosevelt Dam, once the world's largest masonry dam, now renovated and concrete-covered. These dams