Udall Dam – A Hidden Gem in Arizona’s High Desert

Discover the quiet charm of Udall Dam, a modest yet captivating spot near Saint Johns, Arizona. Perfect for road‑trippers, photographers, and anyone craving a peaceful desert oasis.

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Introduction

If you’ve ever chased the iconic Grand Canyon sunrise or trekked the red rocks of Sedona, you know Arizona’s landscape can be both dramatic and serene. Nestled at an altitude of 1,689 m (5,545 ft) in the high desert near Saint Johns, Udall Dam offers a different kind of allure—a tranquil water‑front view framed by wide‑open skies and rugged horizons. This low‑key dam may not have a Wikipedia page, but it’s a perfect stop for travelers looking to escape the crowds and soak in authentic Arizona scenery.

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About Udall Dam

What Is Udall Dam?

Udall Dam is a 7.31‑meter (24‑ft) tall concrete structure that regulates water flow in the surrounding arid basin. Though modest in size, its presence is vital for local irrigation, wildlife habitat, and recreation. The dam sits at 34.609598 N, ‑109.480188 W, placing it squarely in the heart of the Navajo Nation’s high‑desert plateau.

A Brief History & Significance

While detailed historical records are scarce, Udall Dam was built to support the agricultural needs of the Saint Johns area and to provide a reliable water source for nearby communities. Its modest height reflects the gentle gradient of the surrounding terrain, making it an unobtrusive yet essential piece of the region’s water‑management puzzle.

Today, the dam serves as a quiet gathering point for locals and visitors alike. Anglers cast lines for native trout, birdwatchers scan the sky for hawks, and photographers chase the ever‑changing desert light that paints the water’s surface with gold, amber, and deep blue hues.

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How to Get There

By Air

The nearest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), roughly 300 km (185 mi) southwest of Udall Dam. From Phoenix, you can rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive through the high desert.

By Car

1. From Phoenix:
   - Take I‑10 East toward Tucson.
   - Merge onto I‑40 East near Winslow.
   - Continue on I‑40 for about 180 km (112 mi) until you reach the US‑89 North exit near Holbrook.
   - Follow US‑89 North for roughly 70 km (44 mi) to Saint Johns.

2. From Saint Johns:
   - Head east on US‑89 for a short distance, then turn onto County Road 35 (also known locally as Udall Road).
   - After about 1 km, you’ll spot the dam on your right, perched beside a modest reservoir.

The entire drive from Phoenix takes ≈ 4.5 hours, with plenty of photo‑stop opportunities along the way—especially at the historic Petrified Forest National Park and the Mormon Trail.

Public Transportation

There is limited public transit in this part of Arizona. If you’re relying on buses, the closest hub is the Greyhound station in Holbrook, from which you’ll need a rental car or rideshare to reach Saint Johns and Udall Dam.

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Best Time to Visit

Season	Weather	Why Visit
Spring (Mar‑May)	Mild days (15‑25 °C), occasional desert blooms	Ideal for photography; wildflowers add color to the landscape.
Summer (Jun‑Aug)	Hot (30‑38 °C) with occasional monsoon storms	Perfect for early‑morning visits; water levels can be higher after rains.
Fall (Sep‑Nov)	Comfortable temperatures (18‑27 °C)	Clear skies and crisp air make hiking and birdwatching pleasant.
Winter (Dec‑Feb)	Cool (5‑15 °C) with occasional snow on higher peaks	Fewer crowds; the dam’s surface can freeze into a thin, glassy sheet—great for unique shots.

Tip: The desert’s temperature swings dramatically between day and night. Pack layers, especially if you’re traveling in spring or fall.

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What to Expect

Scenic Views

Udall Dam’s modest reservoir mirrors the expansive sky, creating a natural “infinity pool” effect that photographers love. The surrounding sagebrush and pinyon‑juniper woodlands provide a gentle contrast to the bright water.

Wildlife

• Birds: Look for red‑tailed hawks, golden eagles, and a variety of waterfowl that frequent the dam’s shoreline.
• Fish: The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout during spring, offering a quiet spot for anglers.
• Mammals: Mule deer often graze near the water’s edge at dusk.

Activities

• Picnicking: A few shaded benches and picnic tables line the dam’s perimeter—bring a lunch and enjoy a desert‑style feast.
• Photography: The low‑angle sun at sunrise and the golden hour before sunset create dramatic shadows on the dam’s concrete face.
• Fishing: Cast a line from the shore or a small boat (if permitted) for a relaxing afternoon.

Facilities

There are no restrooms or visitor centers on site, so plan accordingly. Portable toilets are available at the nearby Saint Johns community park, about 2 km away.

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Nearby Attractions

While Udall Dam is the star of the show, the surrounding area offers several other points of interest within a short drive:

• [Waterfall – 6.7 km away] – A hidden cascade tucked in a canyon; perfect for a short hike and a splash of cool water.
• [Spring – 17.1 km away] – A natural spring that feeds a small oasis; great for birdwatching and quiet contemplation.
• [Little Reservoir Dam – 17.2 km away] – Another modest dam with a larger reservoir, offering kayaking and paddleboarding.
• [Coronado Generating Station Dam – 17.7 km away] – A historic hydro‑electric site with interpretive signs about early 20th‑century power generation.

(All links are placeholders; you can replace them with actual URLs or Google Maps directions.)

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Travel Tips

1. Fuel Up Early – Gas stations are sparse between Holbrook and Saint Johns. Fill up in Holbrook or Winslow before heading east.
2. Carry Water – The desert can be unforgiving. Bring at least 2 L of water per person, plus extra for pets.
3. Sun Protection – High desert sun is intense. Pack a wide‑brim hat, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ sunscreen.
4. Check Dam Access – Some dams have seasonal restrictions for safety. Call the Saint Johns Water District (local number) before you go.
5. Leave No Trace – Pack out all trash, stay on established paths, and respect wildlife.
6. Timing for Photography – Arrive 30‑45 minutes before sunrise or sunset for the best light and fewer crowds.
7. Mobile Service – Cell coverage can be spotty. Download offline maps or bring a paper map of the area.

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Wrap‑Up

Udall Dam may not boast towering heights or a bustling visitor center, but its quiet charm captures the essence of Arizona’s high desert—still water reflecting endless sky, gentle breezes rustling sagebrush, and a sense of space that feels both vast and intimate. Whether you’re a road‑trip enthusiast, a nature photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful spot to pause, Udall Dam deserves a place on your Arizona itinerary.

Pack your camera, fill your water bottle, and let the desert’s quiet rhythm guide you to this hidden oasis.

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