Redridge Steel Dam - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Dams

About Redridge Steel Dam

Redridge Steel Dam is located in Houghton County, Michigan. The dam was constructed in 1912 to retain and regulate the Ontonagon River for hydroelectric generation purposes. It stands over 39 feet high and spans a length of 804 feet in a single arch design. It is an example of an early 20th century technology that is still being used today as it continues to be put to use through its operation as a public hydropower generating facility owned by WPPI Energy.

Hotels near Redridge Steel Dam

Hotels to stay near Redridge Steel Dam

Activities Around

Attractions Near Redridge Steel Dam

North Canal Township Park

North Canal Township Park

13.07km from Redridge Steel Dam

North Canal Township Park provides visitors with a range of outdoor activities and amenities to enjoy. The park boasts 24 acres of lush green grass, perfect for family picnics or even just a peaceful stroll through the trees. Visitors can explore miles of scenic trails to view ponds, creeks and wetlands, as well as camping and fishing opportunities. The main attraction of the park is its well-maintained playgrounds that provide hours of entertainment for children of all ages.

Keweenaw Waterway Upper Lighthouse

Keweenaw Waterway Upper Lighthouse

13.89km from Redridge Steel Dam

Keweenaw Waterway Upper Lighthouse, is a historic beacon of hope that stands as a reminder of maritime history. This 64-foot tall cast-iron lighthouse was built in 1866 and guided ships around the heavily trafficked copper mining area near Lake Superior. The lighthouse also provided harbor security. Now preserved and cared for by the Keweenaw Historical Society, this lighthouse is still open to the public so you can tour it any time of year.

Quincy Mine

Quincy Mine

14.03km from Redridge Steel Dam

Quincy Mine, one of the most productive copper mines in the United States. Established in 1859, Quincy Mine was originally established as a spot for small-scale prospecting and exploration. However, this quickly evolved into an industry that saw it become one of the world's largest copper producers. With two 2,000 feet long shafts and multiple underground chambers, over 350 miles of tunnel were eventually created.

Mine Shaft & Rock House

Mine Shaft & Rock House

14.33km from Redridge Steel Dam

The Mine Shaft & Rock House offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of the area. The Rock House is one part of this site, an abandoned mining house from the 19th century that was once used by miners as a residence. The second is Mine Shaft; a stunningly deep shaft originally carved into the rock by miners searching for copper ore in the late 1800s. Today, both spots offer fascinating insight into what life was like during this period.

Quincy Mine

Quincy Mine

14.36km from Redridge Steel Dam

Quincy Mine is a former copper mine opeated from 1845 to 1945, it was a prolific producer of copper, yielding over $500 million worth during that time. Quincy was one of the earliest and most productive operations in the area, and made Baraga County one of the top producers of copper in the country. Located beneath the hilltop community of Hancock along Torch Lake, the Quincy Mining Company included 13 shafts reaching 1000ft into the earth.

Quincy Smelting Works

Quincy Smelting Works

14.41km from Redridge Steel Dam

The Quincy Smelting Works is a sprawling complex of industrial buildings that was once the world's largest copper refinery. Founded in 1846, the smelter prospered throughout the 19th century with its operations expanding to process ore extracted by nearby mines. Over time, the demand for refined copper waned and the works closed down in 1907. However, historical preservationists were able to save some of its structures which now serve as a reminder of the area's proud mining history.

Discover More Attractions in Houghton County, Home of Redridge Steel Dam

Houghton County

Houghton County

37 attractions

Houghton County, Michigan is a beautiful land of forests, lakes and rivers. It covers 3,738 square miles and is located in the Upper Peninsula. The county was formed in 1845 and was named when surveyors discovered the Portage Lake Canal which connected Lakes Superior and Michigan. Historical landmarks include Ptarmigan Hill in Ontonagon which contains remnants of an old copper mining site. Houghton's economy relies heavily on agriculture, tourism, manufacturing and mining, while many residents c

Location of Redridge Steel Dam

Comments

For more information about Redridge Steel Dam, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Redridge_Steel_Dam

To view all hotels near Redridge Steel Dam, visit: Hotels near Redridge Steel Dam