Auburn Dam

Auburn Dam is an incomplete arch dam project near Auburn, California, where the North Fork American River flows through a diversion tunnel. The construction site displays foundation work and tunnel infrastructure for what would have been one of the state's largest concrete structures at around 607 feet (185 meters) tall.

Construction of the dam began in 1968 but halted in 1975 when a magnitude 5.7 earthquake raised serious concerns about seismic stability at the site. The project was never resumed despite decades of proposals to complete it.

The unfinished dam site reflects California's ongoing debates between water management and environmental protection in the American River basin. These conversations still shape how people view river use and natural spaces in the region today.

The construction site remains accessible through multiple trails, offering hiking and exploration opportunities along the North Fork American River. Visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain and bring plenty of water for longer hikes in the area.

The project would have stored about 2.3 million acre-feet of water, an enormous supply for the region's water needs. The tunnel structures built to divert the river during construction remain visible today as engineering remnants.

Location: California

GPS coordinates: 38.88190,-121.06200

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:41