Diablo Dam

Diablo Dam is a concrete arch dam spanning 360 meters across the Skagit River with neoclassical design features integrated into its structure. The facility includes a power station housed in buildings that form part of the dam complex.

The dam was completed in 1930 as the world's highest structure of its kind at that time, marking a breakthrough in hydroelectric engineering. Its construction fundamentally changed how the Pacific Northwest generated electricity and managed water resources.

The structure serves as a window into the industrial past of the Pacific Northwest, where visitors can observe how communities relied on water power for growth. People visit to understand the role that dam construction played in shaping the region's economy and daily life over generations.

The site offers excellent views of the valley and surrounding mountains from accessible viewpoints near the dam. A visitor area with displays and information helps people understand the structure and its role in the region.

The reservoir behind the dam, Diablo Lake, displays a striking blue-green color caused by glacial sediment particles suspended in the water from nearby mountain sources. This unusual hue shifts throughout the day depending on light and weather conditions, making it one of the region's most memorable sights.

Location: Whatcom County

Inception: 1930

Architectural style: neoclassicism

Length: 360 m

Part of: Skagit River Hydroelectric Project

GPS coordinates: 48.71430,-121.13100

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:03