The dam and a power plant were built in 1910 to supply power to the Sunbeam Mining Company's mill and mines because the previous source of steam power, created by burning wood harvested from area forests, was no longer feasible due to deforestation. Even with the new dam providing cheap power, the gold mined was not enough to pay expenses and the company's property was sold in 1911 to satisfy its creditors. The fish ladders that allow salmon to climb the dam and continue to spawning streams upriver fell into disrepair and the dam was partially blown up in the 1930s to improve habitat.
The concrete dam still stretches almost all the way across the Salmon River and is in very good condition. A paved walkway with interpretive signs allows visitor to view the river and the dam. A cover kiosk has more signs with information on the ghost towns and scenic drives in the area.
The walkway, kiosk, and restroom are accessible.
The parking lot has RV parking along the edge. Sunbeam Dam 44.2709, -114.73496
I usually stay at the Mormon Bend campground and use it as a base for a week exploring. I've never found it full and have always gotten a riverside spot..
ReplyDeleteThanks for the info! We'll have to stop there next trip through.
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