Ice Harbor Dam

Ice Harbor Dam is a gravity structure spanning approximately 860 meters across the Snake River and generating electricity through six turbines. The facility regulates water levels for river navigation and features a fish ladder system visible to visitors from designated viewing areas.

Construction by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers started in 1956 with the main structure completed in 1961. Additional generator units were installed in subsequent years to expand power generation capacity.

The name references a small bay where vessels once waited during winter for upstream ice to break up. Today this historical name reflects the river's importance to the region's commerce and navigation heritage.

A visitor center on the south bank offers exhibits about facility operations and allows viewing of migrating fish. Visit during fish migration season for the most active observation of fish passing through the ladder system.

The region recorded extreme heat of about 118°F in 1961, revealing how harsh the climate can be in this area. Such temperature extremes define the region's character and make it one of the hottest places in Washington state.

Location: Walla Walla County

Inception: 1956

Length: 860 m

GPS coordinates: 46.24960,-118.88000

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:00