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Lake Powell History and RecreationLake Powell's history is fascinating and colorful. The lake was created for water storage and hydroelectric power generation, but it quickly became a major draw for boaters, fishermen and others seeking recreation. It has evolved into one of the world's best destinations for houseboating, water skiing, fishing and hiking.
The lake stretches for about 186 miles behind Glen Canyon Dam. Construction of the dam began in 1956 and it took a decade of work to complete the project. From the moment water began backing up behind the dam, people started coming to the lake for recreation. But few realized how big of a draw the big lake would become. It literally draws enthusiasts from around the world. Many thousands of people visit the lake every year and the marinas bustle with activity. But, because of the rugged nature of Glen Canyon, and the limited number of access points, most of the lake is not crowded. It is always easy to escape to a remote canyon or private cove. The lake inundated canyons in three river systems: the Colorado, the San Juan and the Escalante. These major canyons include numerous side canyons, with many twists and turns. As a result, the lake's shoreline stretches for some 2,000 miles, providing almost unlimited opportunity to explore. It is virtually impossible to see all of the lake's canyons and attractions in one trip. Houseboats provide an opportunity for you to stay right on the lake, in the area where you want to play or explore. Some people position the boat in a choice location and use it as a base camp, exploring the surrounding area on jet skis or by powerboat. Others anchor the houseboat in a different canyon every night, taking advantage of its mobility to see as much lake as possible. Either way, a houseboat is key to an enjoyable Lake Powell vacation. But this area's interesting history stretches back beyond construction of the dam. Vacationers who watch carefully will see ancient Native American petroglyphs and ruins, trails used by early Spanish explorers, cowboys and pioneer settlers, plus relics left from mining booms that brought prospectors to the canyons. Powell is a big, beautiful lake providing great opportunity for recreation, in an area with a rich history. Click to see the different houseboats that WindWalker Enterprises offers and find the perfect boat for you: | ||||||
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