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.
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.
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.
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.
Too bad the view is spoiled by the dam above it. Nice little viewpoint, picnic facilities and interpretive signage.
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.
Fantastic placed to see, walking trails rushing water excellent photo op. Nice place to sit kick back and enjoy nature at its best.
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...
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.
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.