Lake Powell is one of the most picturesque and scenic tourist spots in the United States. It is located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in southern Utah on the Utah-Arizona border. Lake Powell, named after John Wesley Powell, the one-armed explorer who explored and mapped out the Colorado River basin in the late 1800s, is the second largest man-made surface reservoir in the United States. The lake is formed by the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River and spans 186 miles in length with 1,960 miles of shoreline and a depth that reaches up to 500 feet when full.
The Construction of The Glen Canyon Dam
Construction of the Glen Canyon Dam began in 1956 and was completed in 1963. The construction of the dam and the formation of Lake Powell were a major achievement in the engineering world. The dam is 710 feet high and an impressive 1,560 feet long, spanning across the Colorado River. The dam was built for the purpose of storing the water that would be used to generate hydroelectric power, and to provide water for agriculture, industry, and communities throughout the southwestern United States.
The Beauty of Lake Powell
The scenery surrounding Lake Powell is breathtaking. It is surrounded by sandstone cliffs, towering red rock formations, and the vast beauty of Utah and Arizona’s natural landscape. The clear blue water of the lake contrasts with the surrounding desert terrain, creating a unique and stunning contrast. The lake is home to an abundance of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, otters, and many species of birds and fish.
Exploring Lake Powell
There are many ways to explore the beauty of Lake Powell. The most popular way to explore the area is by taking a boat tour. Boat tours offer visitors a unique perspective of the lake, allowing them to witness the beauty of the surrounding cliffs and rock formations up close. There are many places to rent a boat or kayak, and many companies that offer guided boat tours. Visitors can also explore the area by foot, as there are many hiking trails that offer scenic views of the surrounding area. The area surrounding Lake Powell is perfect for camping and backpacking, with many designated campgrounds and backcountry sites available.
Fishing on Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts from around the world. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, trout, catfish, and crappie. Visitors can obtain a fishing license and rent a boat, or fish from the shore. Fishing on Lake Powell is a unique experience, as the scenery surrounding the lake is unmatched by any other fishing destination.
Conclusion
Lake Powell is a natural wonder that is not to be missed. The beauty of the lake, combined with the surrounding desert terrain, creates a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. The area surrounding the lake offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-filled trip, Lake Powell is the perfect destination.