River Gauge House Site, Mohave County Travel Guide

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Discover the historical River Gauge House Site in Willow Beach, AZ, and learn about the taming of the mighty Colorado River.

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River Gauge House Site

Explore the remnants of the River Gauge House Site in Willow Beach, Arizona, where river gaugers once monitored the Colorado River's flow. The remaining stone foundations offer a tangible connection to the past and the efforts to harness this mighty river.

A brief summary to River Gauge House Site

Willow Beach, Arizona, 86445, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring River Gauge House Site.

Bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited near the site.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the stone foundations.
Combine your visit with other activities in Willow Beach, such as kayaking, fishing, or exploring the nearby hot springs.

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Getting There

Driving

From Willow Beach, the River Gauge House Site is a short drive north along N Willow Beach Rd. Limited parking is available near the site. Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel, as services may be limited in this area.
Walking

From the Willow Beach Marina, follow the shoreline north. The River Gauge House Site is approximately 2 miles upstream. The trail is marked, but wear appropriate footwear and bring water.

Discover more about River Gauge House Site

The River Gauge House Site, located in Willow Beach, Arizona, offers a unique window into the history of the Colorado River and the efforts to manage its waters. In 1931, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the Bureau of Reclamation selected this site to measure the river's flow downstream from the Hoover Dam. Construction started in 1934, and the station was completed in July 1935.Before the construction of the Hoover Dam in 1935, the Colorado River was a wild and treacherous force. The completion of the dam marked a turning point, providing flood control and a means to capture the river's energy. To measure the impact of this massive engineering project, several measuring stations were built, including the one at Willow Beach. The river gaugers who lived and worked at this site played a crucial role in monitoring the river's volume, flow rate, and silt content.Today, visitors to the River Gauge House Site can see the stone foundations of the gauger's one-bedroom house and garage. Interpretive signs provide historical context, explaining the significance of the site and the lives of those who worked there. The site also offers stunning views of the Colorado River and the surrounding landscape.