Second Dam
A tranquil riverside escape offering free fishing, scenic trails, and beautiful picnic spots. Perfect for a peaceful day outdoors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Second Dam
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil riverside escape offering free fishing, scenic trails, and beautiful picnic spots. Perfect for a peaceful day outdoors.
"Amazing place. So peaceful. Was crowded, but plenty of room to spread out and find your own spot."
Pack Bug Spray! :bug:
Essential for evening visits, especially near the water. Don't let bugs spoil your fun!
Bring Your Fishing Gear :fishing_pole_and_line:
Ideal for catch-and-release trout fishing. Easy to access and often fruitful.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Riverside Boardwalk
Along the water's edge
Stroll the paved boardwalk for serene river views and easy access to fishing spots.
Scenic Footbridge
Across the river
Cross this charming bridge for a different perspective and access to trails on the other side.
Catch & Release Fishing
Fishing piers and riverbanks
A favorite for anglers seeking small trout in a peaceful, accessible setting.
Sunset & Sunrise Views
Various vantage points
Experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets painting the sky over the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Fishing & Trails: What to Know
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Good spot for catch and release fishing?
Pack Bug Spray! :bug:
Essential for evening visits, especially near the water. Don't let bugs spoil your fun!
Bring Your Fishing Gear :fishing_pole_and_line:
Ideal for catch-and-release trout fishing. Easy to access and often fruitful.
Explore the Trails :hiking_boot:
Paved paths offer great walking and biking opportunities along the river.
Picnic Ready :picnic_table:
Shaded picnic areas and grills are available, but can fill up. Arrive early!
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Bug Spray! :bug:
Essential for evening visits, especially near the water. Don't let bugs spoil your fun!
Bring Your Fishing Gear :fishing_pole_and_line:
Ideal for catch-and-release trout fishing. Easy to access and often fruitful.
Explore the Trails :hiking_boot:
Paved paths offer great walking and biking opportunities along the river.
Picnic Ready :picnic_table:
Shaded picnic areas and grills are available, but can fill up. Arrive early!
Leave No Trace :wastebasket:
Pack out all trash, as bins can be scarce. Keep this beautiful spot clean.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Second Dam's peaceful atmosphere, scenic river views, and free access. It's a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and enjoying nature. While generally well-maintained, some note the lack of trash bins and potential for bugs in the evenings. High water levels can occasionally impact access to certain areas.
"Amazing place. So peaceful. Was crowded, but plenty of room to spread out and find your own spot. Shaded picnic area and lots of paved trails for walking. Cross the bridge and find trails heading up and down the canyon along the river. Three fishing piers, very clean bathrooms, and great signage."
Rick Jones
"A delightful place. We stopped at the Second Dam to walk on the boardwalk right at the water’s edge. The parking lot is a pull-out on US93 and then it was a short walk down some slight overgrown steps to the boardwalk. There were no bugs despite the water level being so high, that the picnic area was flooded. It was free to park and to visit, but I didn't see any type of restroom. Past the flooded picnic area the boardwalk continued to a lovely footbridge across the river. People were fishing on the other side. Other than past the flooded picnic area, I saw no other way to reach the other side
There should be a trash container on the boardwalk or in the parking area. Some people cleaned up after themselves but did not pack it out. Instead they left it in a bag tied to the boardwalk supports. A shame to litter in this beautiful area."
Celeste Ruppelt
"I love love going to second dam! I like to fish there, I like to hike there, I like to ride my bike there. I’ve brought my hammock there and relaxed with my book. I’ve cooked on the grills that’s provided in the area. You get amazing sunsets and sunrises there as well."
Elvenezolano2156
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Second Dam is accessible via a pull-out on US-93. Parking is available, and it's a short walk down to the boardwalk.
Yes, there's a parking area that serves as a pull-out on US-93. It can get busy on weekends.
Access involves a short walk down some steps from the parking area to the boardwalk. Some areas might be affected by high water levels.
Yes, Second Dam is connected to the river trail, making it accessible for cyclists.
Information on public transport options is limited. Driving is the most common way to reach Second Dam.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Second Dam is free to visit and park. Enjoy the natural beauty without any cost.
Second Dam is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like restrooms might have limited hours or be unavailable.
No booking is required as Second Dam is a public access area and entry is free.
While generally open, be mindful of potential seasonal flooding that can impact access to certain areas.
Camping information is not readily available, but picnic areas with grills are provided for day use.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities
Second Dam is known for its small trout, making it a good spot for catch-and-release fishing.
Yes, it's a popular spot for anglers, particularly for catching and releasing small trout.
Yes, there are three fishing piers available, offering convenient spots to cast your line.
Besides fishing, you can enjoy walking on paved trails, biking, picnicking, and relaxing with a hammock.
Absolutely! It's a darling place for families with great fishing, picnic spots, and trails.
📸 📸 Photography & Scenery
Capture stunning shots of the river, the footbridge, and the beautiful sunsets and sunrises.
Yes, many visitors report amazing stargazing opportunities at Second Dam due to its relatively open skies.
Expect peaceful river views, shaded picnic areas, and trails that wind along the water.
The boardwalk offers excellent vantage points for photography, allowing you to get close to the water.
The area provides amazing sunset and sunrise views, making it a prime location for photographers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly at Second Dam. It's best to bring your own food for picnics.
Yes, Second Dam has picnic tables available, often in shaded areas.
Grills are provided in the picnic areas, making it a great spot for a cookout.
Bring your food, drinks, and any picnic essentials. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Restroom availability can be inconsistent. Some reviews mention no restrooms, while others note clean facilities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎣 Anglers on a Budget
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Bikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing at Second Dam: A Local's Guide
Several fishing piers are available, providing convenient spots to cast your line. The riverbanks also offer good access. Many visitors enjoy the simplicity of fishing here, appreciating the opportunity to connect with nature without the need for extensive travel or specialized gear. It's a great place to introduce beginners to the sport or for experienced anglers to unwind.
Exploring the Trails and Boardwalk
Beyond the immediate boardwalk, the area connects to a larger river trail, expanding your exploration options. This network of paths makes Second Dam a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a short walk or a longer bike ride, the well-maintained trails cater to various activity levels. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Picnicking and Relaxation at Second Dam
For those seeking ultimate relaxation, bringing a hammock is a popular choice. Several visitors have shared their enjoyment of setting up hammocks and spending hours reading or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The combination of natural beauty and convenient facilities makes Second Dam a go-to destination for a laid-back day outdoors. Just remember to pack out everything you bring in to help preserve the area's charm.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit