Fountain Hills Dam Number Six – A Hidden Gem in Arizona’s Desert Landscape

Discover the quiet charm of Fountain Hills Dam Number Six, an off‑the‑beaten‑path attraction for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful spot in the Sonoran Desert.

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Introduction

If you’ve ever driven through the sun‑kissed hills of central Arizona, you might have noticed a series of modest concrete structures hugging the rugged terrain. Among them, Fountain Hills Dam Number Six stands out—not for its size, but for the sense of serenity it offers. At just 12.8 m tall and perched at an altitude of 557 m above sea level, this low‑profile dam may not make the headlines, but it provides a unique glimpse into Arizona’s water‑management heritage and an unexpected backdrop for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a local explorer, a road‑trip enthusiast, or a photographer hunting desert light, Fountain Hills Dam Number Six deserves a spot on your itinerary.

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About Fountain Hills Dam Number Six

What Is It?

Fountain Hills Dam Number Six is a gravity‑type dam located in the town of Fountain Hills, Arizona, United States. Its exact coordinates are 33.626448 N, -111.745612 W, placing it just a few miles east of the iconic Fountain Hills fountain that shoots water 560 feet into the sky. While the dam does not have a dedicated Wikipedia page, it is part of a network of small water retention structures that help manage runoff from the surrounding mountains and protect downstream communities.

History & Purpose

The dam belongs to a series of numbered dams constructed throughout the late 20th century to address the region’s arid climate and occasional flash‑flood events. Though the precise construction date for Dam Number Six isn’t publicly recorded, its design follows the standard practice of using concrete gravity walls to hold back seasonal runoff, allowing water to percolate slowly into the ground and replenish local aquifers.

In addition to its functional role, the dam serves as a recreational corridor for hikers, cyclists, and birdwatchers. Its low height (12.8 m) makes it safe for casual exploration, while the surrounding desert flora—creosote bushes, ocotillos, and occasional saguaro—creates a classic Arizona backdrop.

Why It Matters

• Water Management: Small dams like Number Six are critical for controlling flash floods, especially during monsoon season.
• Ecological Benefit: By slowing runoff, the dam helps recharge groundwater and supports desert wildlife.
• Cultural Landscape: The dam is a tangible reminder of how communities adapt to the harsh desert environment, blending engineering with nature.

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How to Get There

By Car

The most convenient way to reach Fountain Hills Dam Number Six is by personal vehicle. From Phoenix, take AZ‑101 Loop north toward Fountain Hills. Exit onto South Fountain Hills Road and follow the signs for Fountain Hills Reservoir. The dam sits just off the main road, with a small, unpaved access lane leading to a modest parking area.

• Distance from Phoenix: ~35 mi (≈ 56 km)
• Driving Time: 45–55 minutes, depending on traffic

Public Transportation

While there is no direct bus route to the dam, the Valley Metro system offers service to Fountain Hills’s town center. From there, a short rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or a local taxi can drop you off at the dam’s parking lot.

GPS Navigation

Enter the coordinates 33.626448, -111.745612 into any GPS device or smartphone map app for the most accurate navigation. The location is marked as “Fountain Hills Dam #6” on most mapping services.

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Best Time to Visit

Seasonal Recommendations

Season	Conditions	Why Visit
Winter (Dec‑Feb)	Cool mornings (50‑60 °F), clear skies	Ideal for photography; comfortable hiking without heat stress
Spring (Mar‑May)	Wildflower blooms, moderate temps (70‑80 °F)	Desert flora is at its peak; excellent bird‑watching
Summer (Jun‑Aug)	Hot (90‑105 °F), occasional monsoon storms	Early mornings are pleasant; monsoon can create dramatic water flow
Fall (Sep‑Nov)	Warm days, cooler evenings, less crowd	Perfect for sunset shots; lower chance of flash floods

Tip: The monsoon season (July‑September) can turn the dam’s reservoir into a lively, fast‑moving water feature. If you enjoy the sound of rushing water and want to see the dam in action, plan a visit after a rainstorm—just be cautious of sudden water level rises.

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What to Expect

Scenic Overview

Approaching the dam, you’ll notice a low concrete wall hugging a shallow basin, surrounded by open desert terrain. The water level fluctuates with the season—sometimes a thin reflective sheet, other times a modest pool after a monsoon. The 12.8 m height is modest enough that you can see the entire structure from the base, offering a sense of intimacy rarely found at larger reservoirs.

Activities

• Photography: Capture the contrast of the concrete dam against the ochre desert, especially during golden hour. The nearby Fountain Hills fountain can be framed in wide‑angle shots for a “water‑in‑the‑desert” theme.
• Hiking & Walking: A short, informal trail loops around the dam, providing viewpoints of the reservoir, the surrounding hills, and distant McDowell Mountains.
• Birdwatching: Look for American kestrels, Gila woodpeckers, and seasonal migrants that stop at the water’s edge.
• Picnicking: The modest parking area includes a few benches—bring a snack and enjoy the quiet.

Facilities

• Parking: Small lot (≈ 10‑15 spaces) on a gravel surface.
• Restrooms: None on site; the nearest public restroom is at the Fountain Hills Town Center (≈ 2 mi away).
• Accessibility: The access lane is unpaved but generally passable for standard vehicles; the dam’s perimeter is flat, making it relatively wheelchair‑friendly, though the gravel may pose a challenge.

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Nearby Attractions

Exploring the area around Fountain Hills Dam Number Six opens up several other dam sites and natural spots that are perfect for a day‑long adventure:

1. North Heights (Number 11) Dam – Only 0.6 km away, this dam offers a slightly higher viewpoint and a quiet spot for sunrise photography.
2. Fountain Hills Dam #36 – Situated 1.2 km away, #36 is known for a small, seasonal waterfall during monsoon months.
3. Fountain Hills Dam #11 – A short 1.3 km stroll brings you to this historic dam, where interpretive signs explain the early water‑management efforts of the region.
4. Fountain Hills Dam Number Seven – About 2.3 km distant, Number Seven features a modest hiking loop that connects to a network of desert trails.
5. Fountain (the iconic town fountain) – Roughly 3.3 km away, this 560‑foot high fountain is a must‑see landmark and offers a great spot for a coffee break at the nearby cafés.

Combine these sites into a “Dam Trail” itinerary: start at Number Six, loop through the nearby numbered dams, and finish with a visit to the famous Fountain Hills fountain for sunset.

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Travel Tips

Tip	Details
Carry Water	The desert climate can be deceptive; bring at least 2 L of water per person.
Sun Protection	Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essential, especially in summer.
Check Weather	Monsoon storms can cause rapid water level changes; verify forecasts before heading out.
Leave No Trace	Pack out all trash; the area is fragile and relies on visitors to keep it pristine.
Timing	Arrive early (sunrise) for the best lighting and to avoid midday heat.
Parking	The lot fills quickly on weekends; consider arriving on a weekday or early Saturday morning.
Cell Service	Coverage can be spotty; download offline maps or bring a paper map.
Photography Gear	A wide‑angle lens captures the dam’s relationship with the landscape; a polarizing filter helps reduce glare on water surfaces.
Nearby Eats	After exploring, drive to Fountain Hills Town Center for a variety of restaurants ranging from casual cafés to upscale bistros.

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Final Thoughts

Fountain Hills Dam Number Six may not have the fame of a national park or the grandeur of a massive reservoir, but its modest presence tells a compelling story of Arizona’s relationship with water, desert resilience, and quiet outdoor recreation. A short drive from Phoenix, it offers a peaceful escape, perfect for photographers, hikers, and anyone looking to experience the subtle beauty of the Sonoran Desert.

Pack a water bottle, bring your camera, and set your GPS to 33.626448, -111.745612—the hidden oasis of Fountain Hills Dam Number Six awaits. Safe travels!