Hungry Horse Reservoir is a significant reservoir on northwest Montana’s South Fork Flathead River. It is run by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and serves various functions, such as environmental management, flood control, recreation, and the production of hydroelectric power. The reservoir is well-liked by outdoor enthusiasts because it is located in the Flathead National Forest and is encircled by the magnificent Rocky Mountains.
Description
Location: The reservoir lies roughly nine miles southeast of Columbia Falls, twenty miles northeast of Kalispell, and fifteen miles south of the west entrance to Glacier National Park.
Size: The surface elevation of the reservoir is 3,560 feet above sea level.
Dam: Hungry Horse Dam is 564 feet high, making it one of the tallest dams in the United States. It was completed in 1953 and was a significant engineering feat of its time.
Hydroelectric Power: The dam’s powerplant generates about a billion kilowatt-hours annually. The stored water also contributes to additional power generation downstream, totaling approximately 4.6 billion kilowatt-hours.
History
Construction: Authorized in 1944 and built by the Morrison-Knudsen Company and other contractors, the dam construction began in 1948 and was completed in 1953. It was the first dam to use air-entrained concrete and fly ash in its construction to improve durability.
Significance: The dam was built primarily for hydroelectric power and flood control but also serves other beneficial uses such as recreation and environmental management.
Casualties: The construction claimed the lives of 23 workers, highlighting the challenging conditions faced during its building.
Inauguration: President Harry S. Truman started the power generation at a ceremony on October 1, 1952.
Recreational Activities
Hungry Horse Reservoir is a hub for various recreational activities:
Boating and Fishing: The reservoir is well-liked for fishing and boating, and it has kokanee salmon and trout among its many species.
Camping: Several campgrounds around the reservoir provide opportunities for camping, with amenities for tents and RVs.
Hiking: Numerous trails offer scenic views and access to the surrounding wilderness.
Wildlife Viewing: Because of the abundance of species in the area, there are many chances to see and photograph nature.
Hungry Horse Reservoir is a vital resource in northwest Montana, offering a blend of recreational opportunities, historical significance, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in fishing, boating, hiking, or simply enjoying the stunning landscapes, Hungry Horse Reservoir provides an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
