Tag Archives: Columbia River

Abstract Dam Views

There were many odd shapes on the face of the Grand Coulee Dam.  With the water running down in parts and some of the structure of the dam breaking up the smooth face, it was possible to see some unusual patterns in the surface.  There were many power lines strung across the water in front of the dam so these could distract from the shapes so I tried moving around to be between each of the lines.  With the texture of the face of the dam it was possible to look closely at elements and have no obvious clue what they were.

Chief Joseph Dam

My plan for my big day trip was not only to see aviation related things.  Clearly that was the main focus but I decided to add some other stops to the journey.  One of these was to be the Grand Coulee dam.  Halfway between Brewster and Grand Coulee I was surprised to come across another dam and not a small one by any standards.  The Chief Joseph Dam was right alongside the road so I figured I had to stop and take a look.  Apparently it is the third largest hydroelectric generator in the US but I had never heard of it!

You could drive right down to the water under the dam and it seemed to be a popular place for people to come fishing.  A bunch of guys were spread out along the water looking for a bite.  I was more interested in the dam itself so drove down, took some shots and then continued on my way.  I then crossed the river and headed up the hill on the other side.

Near the top, there was an overlook stop for the dam so I figured another short diversion was in order.  Getting a look at the dam from the opposite side would give a different perspective on the structure (and add some pictures for any potential blog post!).  There was a picnic area up at the overlook and a terrace for people to get their pictures.  With a large family group over there taking plenty of pictures of each other, I decided to let them have their space and found a different spot to take my shots.  Again, a quick visit and then back on to my scheduled trip.