Glines Canyon Dam
In Asia, Africa, and South America, large hydroelectric dams are still being built, as they once were in the United States, to power economic development, with the added argument now that the electricity they provide is free of greenhouse gas emissions. But while the U.S. still benefits from the large dams it built in the 20th century, there’s a growing recognition that in some cases, at least, dam-building went too far—and the Elwha River is a symbol of that.
Despite the prolific salmon runs up the 45-mile long Elwha River, the salmon couldn’t compete with the power needs of the timber industry on the Olympic Peninsula; power that fed the mills and growing population of workers. Fish were no match for finance, and the 108-foot-high Elwha Dam, located five miles upstream from the river’s outlet, started generating power in 1914.
The Glines Canyon 210-foot-high dam, locate a further eight miles upstream was built in 1927. The battle to get the dams removed involved many legal moves by the local tribes but finally, in 1992 Congress authorized the federal purchase of the two dams on the Elwha from the timber companies that owned them and ordered a study of the idea of removing them.
The irony here is that it took over two decades to get the dams removed, far longer then it took to build them in the first place.
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Our mission is a labor of love, but it does come with overhead. If you’d like to support our efforts we’d certainly appreciate it. Currently, we’re actively participating in the following field research:
- COASST Beached Bird Surveys
- Wild and Scenic River Project
Thank you.
rad power bikes
Once a year, a group of us get together to rekindle friendships and catch up. This year, Brad, Jason and myself decided to meet up at one of our favorite campsites on the Strait of Juan de Fuca just west of Port Angeles.
I had been anxious to see the results of the dam removals especially the upper Glines Canyon dam. However, a day trip into the area is problematic as the Olympic Hot Spring Road which accessed this area is permanently closed due to a washout that cut the pavement just beyond the Madison Creek Falls.
But we had a solution, something Jason had known about for a while, but just recently acquired by Theresa and myself; Rad Power Bikes. There are plenty of reviews both on YouTube and other sites praising the virtues of these bikes. They do a good job so there’s no reason for me to duplicate their information and I agree with all they mention.
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This is just one of many structures that fell into disarray after the closure of the gravel pit that once operated on the shores of Steilacoom.
Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Mount St. Helens stands as an imposing figure, even in the depths of winter. The snow-capped peak, which famously erupted in 1980, offers a unique and breathtaking landscape for winter adventurers. With its rugged terrain, awe-inspiring vistas, and challenging winter conditions, Mount St. Helens is a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable winter experience. Whether you're an experienced mountaineer or a beginner looking for a thrilling outdoor adventure, Mount St. Helens in winter is an experience you won't soon forget.
Some of the old structures for the gravel pit were once located in Steilacoom, Washington. Since I took this photograph, it's been replaced by a golf course.
Point Robinson Light is a lighthouse located on Maury Island in Washington State, USA. The lighthouse was first built in 1885 and has since undergone several renovations and upgrades. The lighthouse tower is 35 feet tall and is painted white with a black lantern room. It is situated on a bluff overlooking Puget Sound and marks the eastern entrance to Elliott Bay. The light's characteristic is a white flash every 5 seconds with a focal plane of 51 feet above sea level.
What started as a sunny day developed into thunderstorms. The thunderstorm finally moved off to the east. It had us binned in our tents for a couple of hours.
I've just posted an article over on our website. You'll find more photographs and a short write up on what we found. | "Dosewallips State Park Suffers Major Upheaval"
The south shore of Dusty Lakes is just outside Vantage. We've book our campsite for a return trip this spring.
Sunrise over Port Angeles. We’ll be catching the afternoon ferry over to Victoria later today.
Murhut Creek drains the lower Duckabush River valley. Although only the lower portion is visible the falls themselves are over 150'. ------------
Deep Lake at Millersylvania State Park
Theresa is gazing at sunset while beachcombing. The clouds added a wonderful touch of drama to the scene.
Sunrise at Ocean Shores
Theresa is looking downstream at Murhat Falls. This waterfall is easy to drive to and an easy hike in the Olympic National Forest.
Nisqually Wildlife Reserve
Skate Creek runs alongside Forest Road 52 in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This was just one of the many photographic sites that can be accessed from the road.
Sunrise at Fort Flagler State Park
But for me, there is the aspect, which they don’t touch on, of using them as a filming platform extending the range of what can be explored in a day. And here is where I think their real power comes into play. This trip was a perfect example.
Not only did we make it to the Glines Canyon dam but we continued up the steep road all the way to the Appleton Pass Trailhead. We made frequent stops along the way enjoying the views and taking photographs. By the time we had returned to the FJ we had explored over 18 miles of trail; with a full load of filming, photography gear. This was something we would hardly have been able to comfortably complete on foot.
And, we had energy left to cook a large skillet of Chili-n-Mac and enjoy beverages around our campfire. A perfect ending to a perfect day.
