Hearst Lake Dam | Anaconda

Hearst Lake Dam is an engineered structure located in Anaconda, Montana, USA. It impounds water to form Hearst Lake.

Visual Characteristics

The dam is constructed primarily of concrete. It features a gravity dam design with a crest length of approximately 1,200 feet. The spillway is located on the western abutment. The reservoir, Hearst Lake, has a surface area that varies with water levels but can reach up to 1,500 acres. The surrounding terrain consists of mountainous slopes with coniferous forest vegetation.

Location & Access Logistics

Hearst Lake Dam is situated approximately 8 miles west of the Anaconda city center. Access is via Montana State Highway 1, turning onto Forest Service Road 250 (also known as the Hearst Lake Road). This gravel road is generally maintained from late spring through fall. Parking is available at designated pull-offs and a small lot near the dam's eastern end. Public transport is not available to the dam site.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Hearst Lake Dam was completed in 1958. It was built by the Anaconda Company to provide water for its mining and smelting operations. The dam's purpose was to create a reliable water source for industrial processes and dust suppression. The reservoir is situated within a watershed characterized by granitic bedrock and alpine meadows.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities at Hearst Lake include fishing for stocked trout (rainbow and cutthroat). Boating is permitted, with non-motorized craft recommended due to reservoir size and conditions. Hiking trails are present around the lake, offering access to higher elevations. Birdwatching is also a common activity, with various species of waterfowl and raptors observed.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at a small day-use area located on the eastern side of the dam. There are no food vendors at the dam site. Cell phone signal is intermittent and generally unreliable. Limited shade is available from surrounding trees, particularly on the western side of the lake.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for visiting are typically June through September, when the access road is clear of snow and weather conditions are most favorable. Mid-morning offers good lighting for photography of the dam structure. Fishing is often productive in early morning and late evening.

Facts & Legends

A specific historical detail is that the dam's construction was part of a larger effort by the Anaconda Company to manage water resources for its extensive mining operations in the region. Local lore sometimes mentions the dam's role in supporting the town's industrial past.

Nearby Landmarks

• Old Works Golf Course (3.5km East)
• Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Historical Museum (7.0km East)
• Georgetown Lake (15.0km West)
• Discovery Ski Area (18.0km Southwest)