Hoover Dam

4 February 2013

A 35 mile drive down Hwy 93 through Boulder City on a beautiful sunny day brought us to Hoover Dam. Last time I visited was with Arlene on our trip to California in 1964. Many changes since then. A beautiful visitor center, parking garage and the Hoover Dam Bypass bridge which has replaced the old route to Arizona, Hwy 93.

Picture of Hoover Dam

Plaque depicting Completion

View from Bridge

Bypass Bridge

John and I walked across the bridge for more awe inspiring views of the dam and visitor center. You don't realize how high you are until you view from below. Well worth the walk if you can manage the climb either by steps or ramp.

Walk up to Bridge

My Honey on the Bridge

Together on Bridge

Plaque Depicting Bridge

The Dam was started in 1931 and completed in 1935 two years ahead of schedule. The purpose to control floods, provide irrigation and hydroelectricity to Arizona, Nevada and California. It impounds Lake Mead and sits on the state lines of Nevada and Arizona. Construction involved thousands of workers and cost over 100 lives. It is truly an engineering marvel.

View from Arizona Side

John

View from Bridge

View of Visitor Center

Better View of Visitor Center

View of Dam and Bridge

Arizona Side

Museum Exhibit

Bronze of Worker

We opted to park in the parking garage for $7.00. Since we had left Destiny in the iHome decided not to do the Dam and Power plant tour today. Visitor Center has some interesting displays and history. Admission for the Visitor Center is $8.00. After touring the museum we walked across the Dam, viewed the "Winged Figures of the Republic" as known as the "Dam Angels. It is supposed to be good luck to rub the feet. We then had lunch in the cafe and browsed the gift shop. Oh yes, the Power Plant tour is $11 and the Dam Tour $30.

Winged Figures of the Republic

Also Known as Dam Angels

Got back around 3:00PM and did some errands after taking Destiny for a walk.