ryan dam - great falls of the missouri

This is the Great Falls that Great Falls takes it's name from and also the falls that Lewis and Clark had their doozy of a time protaging around. I am all for progress and I realize we need hydropower to keep the power going. I think somehow someway their could have been a compromise in building the actual dam some where else besides right smack dab on the falls, Yes you can see parts of the falls but the full effect is wasted because the dam is built right on top of them.With the parts that are still exposed you can see exactly why Lewis and Clark had such a hard time on this particular part of the journey. The swinging bridge is awesome you cross it one person at a time it leads to a beautiful park, it has several picnic tables plus the first electric test kitchen. It is still in use today it has several electic stoves you can cook on just make sure you clean up after yourself. There is even a hall you can use for Weddings, receptions, company events, etc. This is a must stop for anyone who loves the power of water as well as the majesty of it as well. There is a sign that warns if you hear three horn blasts get off the island as fast as you can.

Sadly the gate across to the Island was locked. We enjoyed what we saw, but would probably return in season to explore & get closer to the dam.

They have a nice swinging bridge to go onto the island. From the island you can have lunch and take great pictures of the falls. They also give you some insight on how locals lived in the past. I was happy I visited :)

Ryan Dam is located approximately 15 miles from Great Falls, Montana. A beautiful site developed by the Montana Power Company. The site is now run by Northwestern Energy.(?) A fantastic picnic site. (You are on an island, surrounded by water).You picnic right below a massive concrete dam. It is awesome in its grandeur. There is no fee and you can have a great relaxing time there.

Ryan Dam was discovered by Lewis and Clark so that makes it cool by default. They have rope bridge to an island that has a great shot of the dam and has plenty of space for a picnic, let the kids run around, play ball, soccer. It's a gorgeous place to see!!

Fantastic placed to see, walking trails rushing water excellent photo op. Nice place to sit kick back and enjoy nature at its best.

Family and I traveled from Livingston. Laying our eyes upon the falls, even from the highway, was a phenomenal sight. Beauty lays all around, a great combination of modern city and classic country. Well worth the drive very picturesque. Even my photography skills captured a great pic. It's hard not to.

Fantastic and Majestic Dam.. Located in a rural set-up with roads between farms .. Small Suspension bridge but a wonderful Green Space park worth a million for Pictures.. Must visit when at Great Falls...

The falls were a disappointment, we were expecting something a little more natural and a little less controlled by dams. Caveat: we were literally running for our lives during our brief visit here, as we were under attack by the most vicious swarm of mosquitos I have seen, and I come from Manitoba originally, where mosquitos have been known to carry off small dogs and children. It was free, except for the blood donations the mosquitos exacted.

I think it would been very good but the gate was closed. It closed on Labor Day and we were there on the 2nd. I don't think they should close it until maybe later in September because a lot of seniors travel early in September. It was a beautiful day.

Amazing to see the obstacles that L & C faced. I am definitely not opposed to building dams, but really, to build a dam over the first great waterfall they had to portage around? Takes away from the scene.

After many years of travelling to Great Falls - I finally saw Ryan Dam and the Great Falls. A really nice little outing. If the weather is nice, take a picnic along to enjoy on the island. I understand it closes in September, but not sure when it opens in the spring.

It it a winding and bumpy ride to get there, but it is worth going. Travel past rolling hills and street signs used for target practice. The dam and falls themselves are amazing. There is also a funky display of the first electric stove.

SatNav takes you right to it but there are few signs to reassure you as you head out on a quiet narrow road. Nice park for a picnic/BBQ with free electric cookers powered by the dam. Would have been impressive in the days of Lewis & Clark.Just hope that you don't hear 8 whistle blasts

Too bad the view is spoiled by the dam above it. Nice little viewpoint, picnic facilities and interpretive signage.