St. Francis Dam Disaster Site: A Memorial to Engineering Hubris
Explore the haunting remnants of California's worst civil engineering disaster, the St. Francis Dam, and reflect on the tragic consequences of its failure in 1928.
The St. Francis Dam Disaster Site serves as a somber reminder of one of California's worst civil engineering failures. On March 12, 1928, the dam catastrophically collapsed, unleashing a torrent of water that claimed over 431 lives and devastated the Santa Clara River Valley. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the dam, scattered concrete fragments, and interpretive plaques that tell the story of the dam's construction, its failure, and the tragic consequences that followed. The site offers a poignant glimpse into the past, prompting reflection on the importance of responsible engineering and the devastating power of nature. Hiking trails wind through the canyon, providing opportunities to contemplate the events that unfolded here and appreciate the resilience of the landscape. The site is free to visit and offers a sobering yet educational experience for those interested in history, engineering, and the human cost of progress.
A brief summary to St. Francis Dam Disaster Site
- 32300 San Francisquito Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, California, 91390, US
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes and long pants, as the terrain is uneven and there may be debris.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited amenities at the site.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Take time to read the interpretive plaques to learn about the history of the dam and the disaster.
- Be respectful of the site and its significance as a memorial to the victims of the disaster.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Santa Clarita, take San Francisquito Canyon Road north for approximately 9 miles. The site is located on the right side of the road, with parking available in designated areas. Be aware that cell service can be unreliable in the canyon. Parking is free.
-
Public Transport
While public transportation options are limited, you can take Santa Clarita Transit Route 7 to the intersection of San Francisquito Canyon Road and Soledad Canyon Road. From there, it's approximately a 1.5-mile walk north on San Francisquito Canyon Road to the Disaster Site. A single ride on Santa Clarita Transit is $1.50.
Discover more about St. Francis Dam Disaster Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Francis Dam Disaster Site
0.0 km
Explore the haunting remnants of California's worst civil engineering disaster, the St. Francis Dam, and reflect on the tragic consequences of its failure in 1928.
Dam disaster plaque
1.8 km
Reflect on the St. Francis Dam disaster at this memorial plaque, a poignant reminder of a tragic chapter in California's history and the importance of engineering responsibility.
The Gentle Barn
13.1 km
Experience compassion and healing at The Gentle Barn in Santa Clarita, a sanctuary for rescued farm animals and a place for humans to connect with them on a deeper level.
Photos with Santa- Santa Clarita
13.5 km
Experience holiday magic at Photos with Santa in Santa Clarita, where festive memories are captured with joy, laughter, and Santa Claus.
Soledad Canyon
14.0 km
Explore Soledad Canyon: A historic passage through stunning landscapes, offering hiking, history, and a glimpse into California's transportation past, just a short drive from Santa Clarita.
Ridge Route Historical Marker
14.2 km
Discover the legacy of California's first mountain highway at the Ridge Route Historical Marker, a testament to early 20th-century engineering and a vital link between Northern and Southern California.
San Francisquito Canyon
14.6 km
Discover the serene San Francisquito Canyon in Santa Clarita, California, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers with breathtaking views.
Rancho San Francisco Historical Marker
14.6 km
Explore the rich history of Rancho San Francisco Historical Marker in Valencia, California, and discover the legacy of early Californian ranching.
Iron Horse Trailhead
14.9 km
Discover Santa Clarita's outdoor beauty and history at the Iron Horse Trailhead, where hiking, biking, and equestrian trails meet a landmark 1898 railroad bridge.
Valencia Town Center
15.1 km
Experience Valencia Town Center: A premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination in Santa Clarita, offering a vibrant mix of retailers and community events for the whole family.
The New Revolution – Classic
16.0 km
Experience the thrill of a lifetime on The New Revolution at Six Flags Magic Mountain, the world's first modern looping coaster, offering a classic ride with a modern twist.
Bowers Cave (Cave of the San Martins)
17.1 km
Discover Bowers Cave in Valencia, California: A captivating historical site showcasing stunning natural formations and rich cultural heritage.
Lang (California Historical Landmark #590) Plaque
17.8 km
Explore Lang Station, a pivotal California Historical Landmark that embodies the rich history of early railroads in Southern California.
Newhall Ranch
17.9 km
Explore Newhall Ranch in Valencia, California - a modern housing development surrounded by scenic beauty and innovative community design.
Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Nature Center
18.7 km
Explore the dramatic rock formations of Vasquez Rocks Natural Area, a unique blend of natural beauty, Hollywood history, and California's Wild West past, located near Agua Dulce.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gibbon Conservation Center
9.9 km
Visit the Gibbon Conservation Center in Santa Clarita for a unique and educational encounter with gibbons, combining conservation with fun.
Todd Longshore Park
13.4 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of Todd Longshore Park, a family-friendly oasis in Santa Clarita, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Valencia Heritage Park
13.4 km
Explore Valencia Heritage Park in Santa Clarita, a family-friendly oasis featuring lush landscapes, playgrounds, and scenic trails for a perfect day outdoors.
Bridgeport Park
13.8 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Bridgeport Park, a premier outdoor destination in Santa Clarita, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Discovery Park
13.9 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Discovery Park in Santa Clarita, where nature meets adventure in a serene outdoor setting.
Mountasia Family Fun Center
14.7 km
Discover endless entertainment for the whole family at Mountasia Family Fun Center in Santa Clarita, the ultimate amusement park experience!
Billy Beez
15.4 km
Discover endless fun and adventure at Billy Beez, Valencia's ultimate indoor playground for kids, featuring exciting attractions and birthday party services.
Walk of Western Stars
15.5 km
Discover the Walk of Western Stars in Santa Clarita, a tribute to the legends of Western films set in a picturesque outdoor environment.
Six Flags Magic Mountain
15.6 km
Experience the thrill of Six Flags Magic Mountain, home to world-class roller coasters and endless family fun in Valencia, California.
Bugs Bunny World
15.6 km
Discover the enchanting world of Bugs Bunny and friends, where thrilling rides and cartoon magic await in Valencia, California.
The Looney Tunes Lodge
15.7 km
Discover the magic of The Looney Tunes Lodge, where adventure and laughter collide in a whimsical cartoon-themed paradise.
Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles
15.7 km
Experience the ultimate water adventure at Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles, a top-tier water park with thrilling rides and family-friendly fun.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles
15.7 km
Experience the ultimate water adventure at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles with thrilling slides, relaxing pools, and family-friendly attractions.
Canyon Country Park
15.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Canyon Country Park, a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and family-friendly activities in Santa Clarita, California.
Summit Park
16.1 km
Explore Summit Park in Valencia, California – a beautiful park perfect for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for relaxation and recreation.
Essential places to dine
La Cocina Bar & Grill
9.8 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant drinks at La Cocina Bar & Grill in Santa Clarita - where flavor meets festivity!
Bella Cucina Italian Restaurant
10.1 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Bella Cucina in Santa Clarita—where every dish tells a story.
Casa Canela Restaurant
11.5 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Casa Canela Restaurant in Santa Clarita, where every breakfast is a celebration of taste and freshness.
Piccola Osteria
11.7 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Piccola Osteria in Santa Clarita - where every dish is crafted with love and tradition.
Wolf Creek Restaurant
11.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Wolf Creek Restaurant in Valencia - where fresh ingredients meet craft brews in a cozy setting.
Lima Limon Peruvian Restaurant
12.7 km
Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Lima Limon in Santa Clarita - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Fish Tail Seafood Grill & Poke Fish Fry
12.9 km
Discover delicious seafood delights at Fish Tail Seafood Grill & Poke Fish Fry in Valencia - where freshness meets flavor!
Eggs 'n' Things Valencia
13.1 km
Experience the best breakfast and lunch at Eggs 'n' Things Valencia - where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.
Olive Terrace Bar & Grill
13.3 km
Experience the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at Olive Terrace Bar & Grill in Santa Clarita - where flavor meets hospitality.
Marston's Restaurant
13.4 km
Discover Marston's Restaurant in Valencia: A cozy spot serving classic American meals and breakfast favorites with a vibrant bar atmosphere.
Royal Tandoor
13.5 km
Experience the best of Indian cuisine at Royal Tandoor – where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sabor Cocina Mexicana
13.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Sabor Cocina Mexicana in Valencia - where every dish tells a delicious story.
Gyromania
14.1 km
Discover authentic Greek flavors at Gyromania in Canyon Country - where every dish is crafted with love and tradition.
Schooners Patio Grille II
14.1 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Schooners Patio Grille II in Santa Clarita - where great food meets vibrant social vibes.
Let's THAI
14.1 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Let's THAI in Santa Clarita – where every dish tells a flavorful story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Roosters Relics
8.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques, rare books, and unique pottery at Roosters Relics in Santa Clarita, California.
Refined Vintage Boutique
13.1 km
Explore Refined Vintage Boutique for unique vintage fashion, home goods, and handcrafted jewelry in the heart of Santa Clarita.
Valencia Village
13.2 km
Explore Valencia Village, a vibrant shopping mall in Santa Clarita, California, offering diverse shops, delicious dining, and exciting entertainment.
Love is Life -Lingerie Adult Boutique
14.3 km
Explore Love is Life, your go-to boutique in Santa Clarita for exquisite lingerie, adult entertainment, and novelty items that celebrate intimacy and fun.
T.J. Maxx
14.6 km
Explore the fashion-forward and budget-friendly T.J. Maxx in Valencia, offering a diverse selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods.
Unusual Babe Undercover
14.6 km
Discover the eclectic range of unique lingerie styles at Unusual Babe Undercover, the must-visit boutique in Santa Clarita for fashion-forward tourists.
Nordstrom Rack
14.6 km
Discover unbeatable deals on stylish clothing, shoes, and accessories for the whole family at Nordstrom Rack in Santa Clarita.
Country Antique Fair Mall
14.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques and vintage finds at Country Antique Fair Mall in Saugus, California, where history comes alive with every unique item.
Santa Clarita Plaza
14.7 km
Experience the charm of Santa Clarita Plaza, a premier shopping destination filled with diverse stores and delightful dining options.
Five Below
14.8 km
Discover unbeatable deals on gifts, accessories, and toys at Five Below, the ultimate budget-friendly shopping destination in Santa Clarita.
River Oaks Shopping Center
14.8 km
Experience the best of shopping and dining at River Oaks Shopping Center in Santa Clarita, where every visit is a unique adventure.
Runway Fashion Exchange Valencia
14.9 km
Uncover stylish second-hand clothing and accessories at Runway Fashion Exchange Valencia—a sustainable fashion hub for trendy finds.
The Promenade
14.9 km
Experience a vibrant shopping and dining destination at The Promenade in Santa Clarita, where fun and flavor meet fashion.
Creekside Place
14.9 km
Explore Creekside Place, the ultimate shopping mall in Santa Clarita featuring diverse stores, dining options, and lively events for the perfect day out.
Whimbys
14.9 km
Discover unique treasures and sustainable shopping at Whimbys, the premier thrift store in Santa Clarita, California.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Monty's Sports Bar & Grill
10.0 km
Discover the lively Monty's Sports Bar & Grill in Santa Clarita, where delicious food and sports unite for an unforgettable outing.
Marci's Sports Bar & Grill
10.6 km
Experience the thrill of sports with delicious cuisine at Marci's Sports Bar & Grill in Santa Clarita.
The Shot Exchange
12.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at The Shot Exchange, a cocktail bar in Santa Clarita known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
The Cube bar and grill
13.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious offerings at The Cube Bar and Grill in Valencia, California, perfect for casual dining and socializing.
Mabel's Roadhouse
14.1 km
Discover Mabel's Roadhouse in Saugus, where vibrant local culture meets affordable drinks, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Schoonerville
14.2 km
Discover Schoonerville, a vibrant grill in Santa Clarita offering delicious meals and a welcoming atmosphere for food lovers.
OLD PROFILE - The Canyon Club - Santa Clarita
15.2 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at The Canyon Club, Santa Clarita's premier night club destination.
The POST Parlour
15.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The POST Parlour, Santa Clarita's hidden gem for drinks, live music, and unforgettable memories.
Full Throttle Sports Bar
15.7 km
Discover the vibrant Full Throttle Sports Bar in Valencia, where delicious American cuisine meets thrilling sports entertainment.
Bergie's Bar and Grill
16.0 km
Experience the heart of Canyon Country at Bergie's Bar and Grill, where delicious meals and warm hospitality await you in Santa Clarita.
The LOCAL Pub & Grill
16.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The LOCAL Pub & Grill, where comfort food meets a vibrant atmosphere in Valencia.
Chili's Grill & Bar
17.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American and Tex-Mex cuisine at Chili's Grill & Bar, a must-visit dining spot in Santa Clarita.
Maginns Pub
18.5 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Maginn's Pub in Santa Clarita with authentic dishes, a lively atmosphere, and live music events.
Eighth & Rail
18.7 km
Experience the best of sports, food, and fun at Eighth & Rail, Newhall's top sports bar and pool hall for an unforgettable outing.
Doc's Inn
19.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Doc's Inn, Santa Clarita's top cocktail bar and nightclub, serving up delicious drinks in a lively atmosphere.
