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Historic Fall River Hydroplant: A Glimpse into Estes Park's Electrical Past

Explore Estes Park's past at the Historic Fall River Hydroplant, where innovation powered a community and shaped its future.

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The Historic Fall River Hydroplant in Estes Park, Colorado, showcases the town's early reliance on hydroelectric power. Built in 1909 by F.O. Stanley to power the Stanley Hotel, the plant now serves as a museum, displaying original equipment and exhibits about its history and the impact of the 1982 Lawn Lake Flood.

A brief summary to Historic Fall River Hydroplant

Local tips

  • Check the operating hours, as the hydroplant has limited opening days, typically Wednesday through Saturday, from 1 PM to 4 PM during the summer.
  • Tours are free and offered at 1 PM, 2 PM and 3 PM, but consider making a donation to support the museum's upkeep.
  • The tour is approximately 45 minutes to an hour long, so plan accordingly.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Estes Park, head west on US-34 (Fall River Road) for approximately 3 miles. Turn onto Fish Hatchery Road, where you'll find the hydroplant. Parking is available in the hydroplant's lot. Note that parking may be limited during peak season.

  • Public Transportation

    While there isn't direct public transportation to the Hydroplant, the Estes Park Shuttle provides service to various points in town. From the nearest shuttle stop, you may need to walk or take a taxi/rideshare to complete the journey. Taxi/rideshare services typically cost $10-$15 for a short trip within Estes Park.

  • Walking

    From Estes Park Museum, walk east on E Riverside Dr toward US-34. Continue to follow US-34 for 2.8 miles. Turn left onto Fish Hatchery Rd and the destination will be on your left. This is approximately a 1 hour walk.

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Discover more about Historic Fall River Hydroplant

The Historic Fall River Hydroplant offers a fascinating look into the history of Estes Park and the ingenuity of its early settlers. Constructed in 1909 by F.O. Stanley, the plant was instrumental in providing electricity to the iconic Stanley Hotel, making it one of the first hotels in the nation to be entirely powered by electricity. The plant operated until 1982 when it was damaged by the Lawn Lake Flood. The flood left a visible mud line and a clock frozen at the time of the disaster, which visitors can still see today. Restored and opened as a museum in 2002, the hydroplant features original equipment, machinery from a 1921 addition, and a diesel unit installed in 1938. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the plant's operation, the history of electricity in Estes Park, and the impact of the Lawn Lake Flood. Knowledgeable guides offer tours, sharing insights into the plant's mechanics and the stories of those who operated it. The experience provides a unique perspective on the town's development and its connection to the surrounding natural environment.

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