Kerr Dam Tours

8 miles southwest of Polson. 883-4550
To reach the dam, turn south at the first stoplight past the bridge in downtown Polson and follow the signs.

Just a few miles southwest of Polson, the 204-foot-high Kerr Dam straddles the Buffalo Rapids Canyon. The dam was completed in 1938 for Montana Power Co. and will be taken over in 2015 by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. It is capable of generating up to 190 megawatts of electricity. There is an English-style village at the powerhouse with a recreation area and raft launching facility. A trail and stairsteps on the canyon’s rim lead to an excellent view of the dam. The views are at their finest in late May and early June when the spillway gates are open. The balance of the year, the river is diverted through 800 foot long tunnels and sent directly to the powerhouse. You can call the number above to arrange a tour of the dam, but be patient. The crew is often working outdoors and you may have to call back several times. Tours are available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.

Reprinted from The Ultimate Montana Atlas and Travel Encyclopedia