Hoover Dam | Boulder City

Information

Landmark: Hoover Dam
City: Boulder City
Country: USA Nevada
Continent: North America

Hoover Dam, Boulder City, USA Nevada, North America

The Hoover Dam is a concrete arch-gravity dam located on the Colorado River, straddling the border between Nevada and Arizona, near Boulder City, USA.

It was constructed between 1931 and 1936 during the Great Depression.

Visual Characteristics

The dam is constructed from 3.25 million cubic yards of concrete. Its face is a light gray color, composed of aggregate concrete. The dam's crest length is 1,244 feet (379 meters), and its height is 726.4 feet (221.4 meters) above the riverbed. The architectural style is Art Deco.

Location & Access Logistics

The Hoover Dam is located approximately 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas, Nevada. Access is via U.S. Route 93. There are multiple parking areas available, including a paid parking garage and free surface lots. Public transportation options are limited; however, some tour operators from Las Vegas offer bus services to the dam.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction began on March 4, 1931, and was completed on March 1, 1936. It was built by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. The dam's original purpose was to control floods, provide irrigation water, and generate hydroelectric power for the southwestern United States.

Key Highlights & Activities

Powerplant tours are available, offering access to the dam's interior and the generators. Observation decks provide views of the dam and Lake Mead. Walking across the dam's crest is permitted. Photography is allowed from designated areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the visitor center and parking areas. Shade is provided at the visitor center and along some walkways. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors and a cafe are located within the visitor center complex.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is generally mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh shadows. The best months for weather are typically April through October, when temperatures are milder. There are no tide requirements as this is a freshwater reservoir.

Facts & Legends

During construction, the concrete was poured in 3.5-foot-thick blocks and cooled with a system of pipes to prevent cracking. A common misconception is that the dam is named after President Herbert Hoover, but it was officially named Boulder Dam until 1947 when it was renamed Hoover Dam.