Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam Travel Guide

Overview: Hoover Dam, an iconic marvel of American engineering, lies on the border between Nevada and Arizona in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. Completed in 1936, this massive concrete arch-gravity dam was pivotal for water storage, flood control, and electricity production. It also facilitated the creation of Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the U.S.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Hoover Dam largely depends on your preferences regarding weather, crowd size, and activities. Here's a breakdown of what to expect throughout the year:

• Fall (October to November):

  • Weather: Cooler and more comfortable than the peak summer months, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit.

  • Crowds: As the summer tourist rush subsides, fall offers a more relaxed experience with fewer visitors.

  • Activities: Ideal for taking guided tours, hiking nearby trails, and enjoying scenic views from the Mike O'Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.

• Winter (December to February):

  • Weather: Mild with temperatures usually ranging between the mid-50s to mid-60s. Rarely, there can be colder snaps.

  • Crowds: One of the least crowded times to visit, though holidays can still draw visitors.

  • Activities: While it's a bit chilly for water activities in Lake Mead, it's a perfect time for dam tours, photography, and bird watching.

• Spring (March to May):

  • Weather: Pleasant with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to high 80s by late spring.

  • Crowds: Begins to get busier, especially as schools start to let out for spring break.

  • Activities: This season is great for all activities, from touring the dam and powerplant to venturing out on Lake Mead.

• Summer (June to September):

  • Weather: Very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F. It's essential to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

  • Crowds: Despite the heat, summer is a peak tourist season, especially for families on summer vacation.

  • Activities: Early morning or late afternoon visits are advisable to avoid midday heat. Water activities on Lake Mead, like swimming or boating, can offer relief from the high temperatures.

Getting to Hoover Dam

Getting to Hoover Dam is relatively straightforward, especially if you're coming from nearby cities like Las Vegas. Here's a guide on how to reach this iconic structure:

• By Car:

  • From Las Vegas, Nevada: The Hoover Dam is about a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas. Simply take the I-515 S which becomes US-93 S. Follow the US-93 S directly to the Hoover Dam. Along the way, you'll have the option to cross the Mike O'Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, which provides a spectacular overhead view of the dam.

  • From Phoenix, Arizona: If you're coming from Phoenix, take the I-10 W to US-60 W. From there, merge onto the US-93 N which will lead you directly to the Hoover Dam.

  • Parking: Once you arrive, there are parking garages and lots available for a fee. The primary parking structure is near the Visitor Center. There's also additional parking on the Arizona side of the dam.

• By Tour Bus:

  • Many companies operate day tours to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas. This is a convenient option if you'd prefer not to drive, and these tours often include a guide who provides historical context and facts about the dam.

• By Helicopter:

  • For those looking for a unique perspective, there are helicopter tours available from Las Vegas that offer aerial views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the surrounding area.

• By Bicycle:

  • If you're an avid cyclist and looking for an adventure, you can ride from Boulder City to Hoover Dam via the Historic Railroad Trail. It's a relatively flat route that offers scenic views of Lake Mead and the surrounding desert landscapes.

Top Attractions

1. Hoover Dam Itself: The massive concrete arch-gravity dam stands as a testament to human engineering. The art deco design and dedication monument further add to its allure.

2. Powerplant Tour: Delve into the heart of the dam and see the massive generators. Learn how the dam produces hydroelectric power for vast areas of the West.

3. Mike O'Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge: Adjacent to the dam, this bridge is not only an engineering marvel but also offers one of the best overhead views of Hoover Dam. You can walk across it via a pedestrian walkway.

4. Visitor Center: A hub of information, the Visitor Center offers exhibits, a theater that screens a film about the dam's history, and an observation deck providing panoramic views of the dam, Lake Mead, and the Colorado River.

5. Lake Mead: The reservoir created by the dam, Lake Mead is the largest in the U.S. It offers recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking.

6. Historic Railroad Trail: An easy, flat trail that offers scenic views of Lake Mead and takes you through old railroad tunnels.

7. Hoover Dam Bypass: This provides a scenic route around the dam with multiple viewpoints and parking areas where you can stop and take in the vistas.

8. Art Deco Designs: The dam is adorned with various art deco designs and sculptures. Notable ones include the Winged Figures of the Republic, a pair of bronze statues, and the terrazzo floor with its celestial map.

9. Old Exhibit Building: This historic structure hosts exhibits that provide insights into the dam's construction and the people who built it.

10. Guided Tours: Beyond the Powerplant Tour, there are comprehensive guided tours that delve into more areas of the dam, providing in-depth knowledge and anecdotes from guides.

Activities

While the Hoover Dam itself is a sight to behold, there are several activities visitors can engage in to enhance their experience. Here are the top activities to do at and around the Hoover Dam:

1. Guided Tours: Participate in guided tours of the dam and powerplant, delving deeper into the history, engineering, and significance of this colossal structure.

2. Photography: Capture the architectural and engineering magnificence of the dam, as well as the stunning surrounding landscapes.

3. Walking the Bridge: Stroll along the pedestrian walkway on the Mike O'Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for a unique overhead view of the dam and the Colorado River.

4. Boating on Lake Mead: Rent a boat or kayak and explore the vastness of Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the U.S.

5. Hiking: Embark on the Historic Railroad Trail or other trails around Lake Mead, enjoying scenic views and desert landscapes.

6. Bird Watching: The area around the dam and Lake Mead is home to various bird species, making it a pleasant spot for bird enthusiasts.

7. Fishing: Cast a line into the waters of Lake Mead, home to several species of fish, including bass, catfish, and trout.

8. Star Gazing: Away from the city lights, the area around the dam can offer beautiful night skies, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.

9. Picnicking: There are several picnic spots around Lake Mead where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal amidst natural beauty.

10. Educational Sessions: Attend talks or educational sessions at the Visitor Center to learn more about the dam's history, the region's ecology, and more.

Facilities

• The Hoover Dam has restrooms, a gift shop, and a food concession area.

• The Visitor Center offers informational displays, guided tours, and a panoramic view from its observation deck.

Where to Stay

When visiting Hoover Dam, there are several areas nearby where you can find accommodations, ranging from hotels to campgrounds. Here are the main areas to consider for your stay:

• Boulder City, Nevada:

  • Closest to the Hoover Dam, this charming town offers a range of accommodations, from hotels to bed and breakfasts.

  • It's a historic town with its roots in the construction of the dam, adding to its appeal for visitors.

• Henderson, Nevada:

  • Located further west of Boulder City, Henderson is a larger city with a wider variety of accommodations, restaurants, and amenities.

  • It provides easy access to both Hoover Dam and Las Vegas.

• Las Vegas, Nevada:

  • While it's about a 45-minute drive from the dam, many visitors choose to stay in Las Vegas due to its vast array of hotels, entertainment, dining, and other attractions.

  • The city is especially convenient for those flying into the region, as it hosts the closest major airport.

• Lake Mead National Recreation Area:

  • For those looking for a more natural setting, there are several campgrounds within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, both for tents and RVs.

  • This is an ideal spot for those planning to engage in outdoor activities around Lake Mead, like hiking, fishing, or boating.

• Kingman, Arizona:

  • Located to the southeast of Hoover Dam, Kingman is a reasonable option if you're approaching the dam from the Arizona side.

  • It's a historic Route 66 town with a selection of accommodations and a relaxed ambiance.

    
    

Tips for Travelers

• Security: Due to its significance, there are security checkpoints before entering the dam area. Large bags and vehicles may be subject to search.

• Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan on taking a tour or walking around.

• Weather: The region can get very hot during summer months; come prepared with water and sun protection.

• Time Zone: Interestingly, the two states the dam connects have different time zones for part of the year. Nevada follows Pacific Time, while Arizona follows Mountain Time, though it doesn't observe Daylight Saving Time.

Exploring the Hoover Dam provides insight into a critical infrastructure piece that transformed the American Southwest. Whether you're marveling at its sheer size, delving into its history, or enjoying the surrounding natural beauty, the Hoover Dam offers a multifaceted experience.