Lower Granite Dam

Lower Granite Dam is a hydroelectric power station that spans 975 meters across the Snake River to generate electricity for the region. Six turbines operate there and ships can also pass through the navigation lock to travel on the waterway.

Construction started in 1965 under the US Army Corps of Engineers but faced funding delays that slowed the project down. The work took ten years longer than expected before the facility finally opened in 1975.

The visitor center here offers displays and viewing areas where people learn how the dam generates power and supports river transportation. Local communities depend on both the electricity production and the waterway for their everyday lives and economy.

The site has a visitor pavilion with viewing areas where you can see the dam and the river. The best time to visit is when weather is mild since you will spend time outdoors looking at the facility.

The facility has specialized fish ladders and a system to collect young salmon during their journey. These features help fish pass over the dam while migrating through the Snake River system.

Location: Whitman County

Location: Garfield County

Inception: 1965

Length: 975 m

GPS coordinates: 46.66050,-117.42830

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:44