Hoover Dam Bypass
Hoover Dam Bypass
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
About
The 2,000-foot-long bridge spans the Colorado River canyon. As the world's highest concrete arch bridge, it shows off spectacular views of Hoover Dam.
Duration: < 1 hour
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kay-cee-1138
Houston, TX554 contributions
Oct 2024 • Solo
The Hoover Dam Bypass is the O'Callaghan-Tillman Memorial bridge which was built some years ago to alleviate traffic congestion on the old road atop the dam itself. The high arch of the bridge is in itself a fantastic sight from down at bridge level. But the main attraction is the pedestrian walkway along the north (dam-facing) side of the highway bridge.
First of all, note that it is *really* high. This is definitely not a place to go for anyone who has no head for heights. The bridge is solid, but the wind can be quite strong at its altitude.
The parking area for the bridge is after the dam's security checkpoint and is easy to miss. About half a mile beyond the checkpoint, look for a sign to the "bridge scenic view" pointing to the right. The parking lot is good sized, but can still be crowded. There are public restrooms there. Beyond the parking lot, a long zigzag ramp (with bypassing stairs) leads up to the bridge level. Along the way are interpretive panels about the men for the whom the bridge is named as well as information about the design and building of the bridge itself.
Your reviewer doesn't mind heights much, but the high winds and the highway traffic whizzing by just a few feet away were constant distractions. Nevertheless, the most excellent view down to Hoover Dam was absolutely worth the effort. Watch for the panels in the walkway: there is one for the center of the span, and another for the border between Nevada and California. Also, if you visit later in the afternoon, the shadow of the bridge itself will fall on the dam, adding additional visual interest.
First of all, note that it is *really* high. This is definitely not a place to go for anyone who has no head for heights. The bridge is solid, but the wind can be quite strong at its altitude.
The parking area for the bridge is after the dam's security checkpoint and is easy to miss. About half a mile beyond the checkpoint, look for a sign to the "bridge scenic view" pointing to the right. The parking lot is good sized, but can still be crowded. There are public restrooms there. Beyond the parking lot, a long zigzag ramp (with bypassing stairs) leads up to the bridge level. Along the way are interpretive panels about the men for the whom the bridge is named as well as information about the design and building of the bridge itself.
Your reviewer doesn't mind heights much, but the high winds and the highway traffic whizzing by just a few feet away were constant distractions. Nevertheless, the most excellent view down to Hoover Dam was absolutely worth the effort. Watch for the panels in the walkway: there is one for the center of the span, and another for the border between Nevada and California. Also, if you visit later in the afternoon, the shadow of the bridge itself will fall on the dam, adding additional visual interest.
Written 12 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1stserve
Midlothian, VA59 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We visited Hoover Dam through Gray Line Bus Tours on a Thursday morning in May 2024. Our tour guide, Michael, was the best, with non-stop jokes about Las Vegas, current events, and the tour we were about to embark on. Michael was informative about what we were seeing as we passed by each stop, with exciting tips and facts along the way. He made sure that each person was given photo opportunities at each stop and that we were greeted back to the bus with a warm smile and a cold drink (water.) We thoroughly enjoyed our trip and would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in seeing the man-made wonders of the US.
Written 26 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jochen M
Berg, Germany12,562 contributions
Nov 2024 • Solo
The first time I visited the impressive dam was in 1997 and a lot has really happened since then! The bridge from which you have a great view is New Even if you now drive to the Dam, the car is checked first! Crossing the Dam there are some free parking spaces and lookouts available! If you are on your way to Grand Canyon or Las Vegas, you should definitely stop here.
Automatically translated
Written 19 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rachel & Andy
392 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
Don't miss the Hoover Dam on your road trip to or from the Grand Canyon. This awe-inspiring structure is a testament to human engineering. A great place to stop for a good view is the Mike O'Callagan Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge Plaza. Lots of parking spaces here, though there's a separate toll to enter the area. Stretch your legs on the short 10min walk to the middle of the viewing bridge overlooking the Dam, snap some photos, and soak up the birds eye views before continuing your adventure. The bridge is even accessible with a huge ramp up to the top, just be prepared that it may be too much for those unsteady on their feet or for those afriad of heights. But we think it's a perfect stop on your journey!
Written 27 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
greconj
New Jersey412 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
A must-see when in the area. Really interesting history and great views. There is not much in the way of facilities around so make sure you pack water and snacks before you head there. You can cross the border between Arizona and Nevada and also at the right time of the year you cross time zones.
Written 17 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Have Camera, Will Travel
South Bend, IN3,808 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
You will need to get off the highway and walk out onto the bridge if you want a view. Heading from Nevada into Arizona, you couldn't see anything because of the wall dividing the east/west lanes. That's probably a good thing since people will gawk at it.
If you do head to the parking area, be aware that it can fill up quickly. It is a tour bust stop, wo people show up in droves. The picture is pretty epic though. It's definitely worth the time.
If you do head to the parking area, be aware that it can fill up quickly. It is a tour bust stop, wo people show up in droves. The picture is pretty epic though. It's definitely worth the time.
Written 10 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Raena N
Scottsdale, AZ63 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
My family and I recently embarked on an excursion to the iconic Hoover Dam, and despite some unexpected twists, it was a memorable experience worth recounting.
The weather was windy, adding an extra element of adventure to our journey. Despite the gusts, we had a blast exploring the area together. However, we encountered a slight hiccup when we realized, albeit too late, that only service animals are permitted on the premises. Nevertheless, our husky seemed to relish his scenic walk, adding a touch of charm to our visit.
We made our way to one of the many lookout options, eager to immerse ourselves in the rich history and breathtaking views that awaited us. Pausing at the lookout, we took a moment to absorb a brief overview of the dam's history, marveling at the sheer magnitude of human ingenuity and hard work that went into its construction.
The panoramic vistas stretched before us, offering a glimpse into the past and reminding us of the remarkable feats achieved by those who came before us. From the towering structure of the dam itself to the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, every aspect of the vista was a testament to human perseverance and determination.
Despite the minor setback with our furry companion, our visit to Hoover Dam was an unforgettable experience filled with awe-inspiring sights and cherished family moments. It served as a poignant reminder of the importance of both historical preservation and enjoying the simple pleasures of nature's beauty.
The weather was windy, adding an extra element of adventure to our journey. Despite the gusts, we had a blast exploring the area together. However, we encountered a slight hiccup when we realized, albeit too late, that only service animals are permitted on the premises. Nevertheless, our husky seemed to relish his scenic walk, adding a touch of charm to our visit.
We made our way to one of the many lookout options, eager to immerse ourselves in the rich history and breathtaking views that awaited us. Pausing at the lookout, we took a moment to absorb a brief overview of the dam's history, marveling at the sheer magnitude of human ingenuity and hard work that went into its construction.
The panoramic vistas stretched before us, offering a glimpse into the past and reminding us of the remarkable feats achieved by those who came before us. From the towering structure of the dam itself to the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, every aspect of the vista was a testament to human perseverance and determination.
Despite the minor setback with our furry companion, our visit to Hoover Dam was an unforgettable experience filled with awe-inspiring sights and cherished family moments. It served as a poignant reminder of the importance of both historical preservation and enjoying the simple pleasures of nature's beauty.
Written 11 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TravelingSoccerLoon
Saint Paul, MN8,619 contributions
Jun 2023 • Solo
This is the Highway 93 bridge that spans the Colorado River, but it has a pedestrian path that provides an excellent bird's eye view of the Hoover Dam, and it is probably the best view of this engineering marvel. It is also now known as the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. You can walk to the bridge by parking in the lot off the Hoover Dam Access Road after passing through the security check. It does require quite a tough climb up steps from the plaza area to the bridge, but the effort is well worth it.
Written 19 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Travel25346533585
940 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
A Magnificent view of an Architectural Marvel. We have been on top of the Hoover Dam many times but to see it from the Bypass is somethings Extra Special. A trip to the Hoover Dam is not complete without seeing i from the Bypass. We also did the Pontoon Boat ride which starts at the base of the dam. We have seen the Dam from all angles, it is worth the effort.. Naturally we also did the tour through the inside of the dam too.
Written 9 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dawn M
5 contributions
Dec 2023 • Friends
The ride in is just as amazing as the dam! Beautiful mountains and the wonder of the dam. The walk from the parking lot wasn't very far and there were multiple educational items on the way. Worth the time to come visit! Definitely recommend.
Written 26 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emily
Ames, Iowa
I read an old blog post that said the bypass bridge is closed for cleaning on Monday mornings. Is this correct? And if so, for how many hours?
Written 25 October 2021
We will be visiting this Labor Day weekend....please let me know are tours are running? Is it worthwhile to go into the visitors center? Is that the tour?
Ty for your help!
Written 21 August 2021
last time we were there they were running
Written 29 October 2021
Has anyone visited the Hoover Dam since 06/2021 to know what to expect? I visited the official site and see tours are not up and running yet. Planning on a visit late August. Wondering about crowds and such...
Written 21 June 2021
We highly recommend the GYPSY Guided tour of the Hoover dam and drive from Las Vegas via Hoover Dam to the Grand Canyon. It entertains you with facts on the dam, where to park, where to view all for a $6 app on your smartphone. The "Gypsy" app tour is like having an expert tour guide that tells you where to turn, what to see and fills you in on history, geology and funny tid bits. It is the right amt of information and silence. definitly check it out when visiting Hoover Dam and get the history.
Written 6 December 2021
We are going to Las Vegas for work and have one full day. We want to see Hoover Dam, which I understand is an easy day trip. After the conference, we are driving from Vegas to Flagstaff. I want to make sure we will not be doubling back - i.e. driving past the Hoover Dam on the way to Flagstaff! Does anyone know? Thanks!
Written 26 April 2021
The Hoover dam is opposite the Grand Canyon direction
Written 2 June 2021
Guide583163
San Diego, California
We are renting a 25' RV and visiting Lake Mead and the Hoover dam in late September. Where on the Dam Bypass would we be able to park to see the dam? Also, are there any RV parks in the area you'd recommend? And any marina you would recommend for renting a small powerboat. Thanks!
Written 13 September 2020
No you will not be able to see it
Written 27 September 2020
Is the parking area open and are people allowed to walk across the bridge during the pandemic? Will be there in 2 weeks and cannot find a definitive answer.
Written 1 July 2020
Best to check directly with them as things could have changed.
Written 2 July 2020
How and where did you book the tour for the power plant. I would love to do this, and about how long would you say this could take of your day? Is there some good things to stop and do on the way from Vegas and any good food locations?
Written 24 May 2020
We live in Vegas so it is easy for us to take the 45-min drive from our home. After you leave the security checkpoint, watch for a small parking lot on the right with lots of stairs leading up to the bypass bridge. A long walk, but the view of the dam is spectacular. Return to the parking lot and drive down to the dam's on-site parking facility that is favorable if you have difficulty walking. I recommend you bypass the parking facility and drive across to the Arizona side where parking is free but hard to find. Then you take the pedestrian walkway back to the Nevada side and purchase your tickets at the Visitor Center. You can judge the walking distance, in 100-120 degree sunshine, and decide if you should drive back over to the Nevada side and park in the multi-level parking lot for $10. There is plenty to see outside of the Visitor Center. The guides inside the Visitor Center will describe the available tours. Take a wide brim hat, social mask, and plenty of water when you are walking outside. On your return trip, follow the signs from the dam to Boulder City for an ice cream cone and a glimpse of history in a charming small town. On the way back to Las Vegas, you can stop in Henderson for fast food or Walmart shopping.
Written 25 May 2020
Do the tour companies offer discount coupons
Written 6 October 2019
I have seen discount tickets on groupon.
Written 11 December 2019
alishajane
Winnipeg, Canada
We are taking a day trip from Vegas to Hover Dam any suggestions on best roads to take with scenery? Also any places to stop and shop or eat along the way. Thank you
Written 16 March 2019
hello alishjan,
re hover dam... first time out there? it was mine and let me tell ya, there really is not many choices on roads or scenery, lol. once you leave vegas heading toward Hoover Dam, not much except Boulder, which would have places to eat. We didn't stop but the little town did leave an impression as "quaint", think we passed a "train ride" passing thru and 1 grocery store. the scenery is everywhere, the expanse with nothing, the mountain tops looming near and far.... then suddenly you spot a lake (or is that a mirage?) and there it is.... Grand, man made and inspiring, the dam and the surrounding infrastructure show what extreme measures it took to harness nature, for better or worse as you will see by the visual water lines, +100's of feet above the current water level which our driver states is as much or perhaps even more a result of poor water management as any natural event. Be that as it may, seeing that line does give a dramatic perspective, especially in photos.
Written 16 March 2019
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