Pacific Tree Frog
ParkWashington, US
Cushman Dam
Cushman Dam offers a unique convergence of historic engineering and stunning natural beauty.
About
Cushman Dam offers a unique convergence of historic engineering and stunning natural beauty. This significant hydroelectric project, nestled within Washington's scenic landscape, provides a gateway to outdoor adventure. As an early 20th-century marvel, the dam created Lake Cushman, now a vibrant hub for recreation and a testament to human ingenuity harmonizing with nature.
Visitors can explore the majestic concrete arch of Cushman Dam No. 1, admiring its impressive scale and the serene waters of Lake Cushman it impounds. The surrounding area, part of the Olympic National Forest and adjacent to Olympic National Park, teems with diverse wildlife and lush old-growth forests, offering picturesque backdrops for hiking, fishing, and photography. The larger Cushman Hydro Project area protects over 2,700 acres of habitat for creatures like elk, deer, eagles, and osprey, while its lakes are home to kokanee and cutthroat trout.
Whether you're drawn by its historical significance, the tranquility of its waters, or the call of the wild, Cushman Dam provides a memorable escape. It's a place where you can witness the powerful legacy of hydropower alongside the untouched splendor of the Pacific Northwest, creating an enriching experience for all who visit. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.
Cushman Dam No. 1 is a hydroelectric dam built by Tacoma City Light (now Tacoma Power) on the North Fork of the Skokomish River between 1923 and 1926. Its construction was driven by Tacoma's rapidly increasing demand for electricity following World War I. The dam's activation in 1926 was a nationally celebrated event, with President Calvin Coolidge symbolically pressing a button in the White House to energize the project. This engineering feat created the 4,010-acre Lake Cushman. A second, smaller dam, Cushman Dam No. 2, was completed downstream in 1930, forming Lake Kokanee and further enhancing the hydroelectric capacity. Both Cushman Dam No. 1 and No. 2, along with associated powerhouses, are recognized for their historical significance and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, representing significant achievements in hydroelectric generation and engineering.
What to do here
Admire the engineering marvel of the dams.
* Go fishing for kokanee and cutthroat trout in Lake Cushman.
* Hike or bike along the scenic trails, such as portions of the paved Cushman Trail.
* Observe wildlife like elk, deer, eagles, and osprey in their natural habitat.
* Enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or boating on Lake Cushman.
* Take a guided tour of Powerhouse No. 2 to understand the dam's function.
Seasonal info
Winter/Fall: Lake Cushman levels are typically lowered in the fall and winter to prevent flooding, revealing old stumps and altering the shoreline.
Spring/Summer: Lake levels rise with snowmelt, filling the lake for peak recreational use.
Closures: Always check for current fire-related closures or road conditions, especially in the vicinity of Olympic National Park. As of November 2025, some recreation sites connected to Tacoma Power were closed until October 2026 due to the Bear Gulch Fire.
Accessibility
The Cushman Trail offers a paved, non-motorized route suitable for pedestrians and bicyclists. Some areas, like the Dry Creek Trail improvements, include barrier-free picnic sites and toilets. Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman welcomes pets in off-leash swimming areas and on pet-friendly trails, though dogs must be leashed in public areas.
Don't miss
1
Cushman Dam No. 1
An impressive concrete arch/gravity dam offering striking views.
2
Lake Cushman
A large, scenic reservoir perfect for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
3
Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman
Offers public access for picnicking, camping, and water sports.
4
Cushman Powerhouse No. 2
Tours of this facility, located near Hood Canal, can be arranged by appointment to learn about the hydroelectric process.
Wildlife you might spot
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Snap map for this place
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Good to know before you go
Check for Closures
Before visiting, especially if planning to hike, check Tacoma Power's website and U.S. Forest Service/National Park Service sites for any current fire-related closures or road conditions.
Required Passes
If you plan to hike in the Olympic National Forest or Olympic National Park areas surrounding Lake Cushman, you may need a Forest Pass or a National Park pass.
Water Safety
If boating or swimming in Lake Cushman, be aware of water temperatures and depth changes, especially during periods of lowered lake levels in fall and winter.
Wildlife Etiquette
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, avoid feeding animals, and keep dogs leashed in public areas to protect both visitors and the ecosystem.
Fishing License
Anglers wishing to fish for kokanee or cutthroat trout will need a valid Washington State fishing license.
Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, appropriate footwear for trails, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Frequently asked questions
- Cushman Dam is primarily known for its historical significance as an early 20th-century hydroelectric engineering marvel, providing clean energy to Tacoma, and for creating the beautiful recreational area of Lake Cushman. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Visitors to Cushman Dam and the surrounding Lake Cushman area can frequently spot a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bald eagles, and ospreys. The lakes are popular for kokanee and cutthroat trout fishing, and various salmon species can be observed, particularly during migratory periods. Forest inhabitants like Douglas squirrels, Steller's jays, and even unique banana slugs are also present.
- Yes, free group tours of the Cushman Hydro Project facilities, including Powerhouse No. 2, are available by appointment for various groups during regular working hours. Visitors interested in learning more about the dam's operations and history can inquire through Tacoma Power.
Recent snaps at this place
Jun 5, 2026
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Photo attribution
no rights reserved
License: CC0 1.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 28, 2026
i
Photo attribution
no rights reserved
License: CC0 1.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 28, 2026
i
Photo attribution
no rights reserved
License: CC0 1.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 28, 2026
i
Photo attribution
no rights reserved
License: CC0 1.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 28, 2026
i
Photo attribution
no rights reserved
License: CC0 1.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
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