Glen Canyon Dam, Providing Essential Water Storage For The Desert Southwest.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area was established in 1972, a dramatic example of one of nature’s most inspired settings combined with an ambitious human project. Glen Canyon Dam, standing 710 feet tall, constructed to assure downriver states the necessity of water, was started in 1956. Lake Powell was created in 1963 when the Glen Canyon Dam construction was completed, stopping the waters of the mighty Colorado River and forming a vast blue lake surrounded by beautiful sandstone walls. The Glen Canyon Dam was a success! After 17 years, water levels reached “full-pool” capacity in 1980, thereby fulfilling the goal of Glen Canyon Dam, to provide essential water storage and offer leisure activities to American and international visitors.

Tours of the Glen Canyon Dam

The Glen Canyon Natural History Association provides free tours of the Glen Canyon Dam. The dam is a Federally owned facility, therefore security measures are in place. Please visit the Glen Canyon Natural History Association website for more information about tours of the Glen Canyon Dam.

Highlights of the Glen Canyon Dam history:

Oct. 20, 1956
Construction started on Glen Canyon Dam, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower pressed a button from the White House, detonating the first powder charge.

1966
The final two generating units at the Glen Canyon Dam began providing power.

October 27, 1972
The Glen Canyon National Recreational Area was established.

June 20, 1980
Lake Powell reached 'full pool' for the first time at 3,700 foot elevation. Since that time, it has become the ultimate destination for houseboating vacations.