Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam Tour - Fun, Free, Informative

Remember the dog in the animated movie "Up" that was immediately and frequently distracted by "Squirrel!"?  Well, that's how I react to "Tour!" 

I've wanted to tour the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam since moving to the Mill District two years ago, but our work schedules and packed weekends always seemed to take precedent over making time for the tour.  So, when Mill City Commons organized a private tour for members earlier this month, I signed us up right away. 

What a great way to spend an hour on a beautiful afternoon.  From the vantage point of the Lock and Damn facility, we gained a whole new perspective of the river, falls, bridges and riverbanks.  Our tour guide, Josh, provided a wealth of information, and we were able to get up close and personal with some of the powerful mechanics.  

In addition to the history, facts and figures discussed during the tour, the US Army Corps of Engineers has a variety printed materials available to take home.  Tours run through September, so if you haven't had a chance to enjoy one yet, there's still time this season.