The mighty Colorado River winds through the American West, providing hundreds of thousands of people with the fresh water that they need. However, it would not be possible to get this water across the dry, arid west without the use of innovative dams. There are several dams along the Colorado River, and many of them are worth a visit.

These are the top Colorado River dams to check out:

Glen Canyon Dam

The Glen Canyon Dam may be the little brother to the more famous Hoover Dam, but it’s still noteworthy in its own right. This dam is the second-largest dam of its kind in the country. It is located off of the Colorado River near Lake Powell and plays an important role in the distribution of water throughout the west. It is essentially a storage facility, and its water is used to provide for western communities during times of drought.

Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is easily the most well-known dam on the Colorado River, if not the most popular dam in the entire country. The Hoover Dam was one of the most infamous public works projects that helped to usher America out of the Great Depression, and it continues to play an important role today. The public can book tours of the Hoover Dam and its power plant, but the best way to take in its glory is from the water. On the Black Canyon river tour, you can get a glimpse of the Hoover Dam from the waters below.

Davis Dam

The Davis Dam is located on the Arizona side of the Colorado River, and its construction resulted in the creation of the famous Lake Mohave. Not only is the Davis Dam a breathtaking sight to behold, but it also offers a campground that includes RV spots, various campsites, picnic areas, and a boat launch. The Davis Dam has become a popular family destination for people who are looking to experience the beauty of the American West.

These larger-than-life dams tell an important story about American history while still playing a prominent role in society today. To learn more about the Colorado River and the impact that it has on people as well as wildlife in the region, book a tour with Black Canyon River Adventures today.