The Bainbridge Ashfork Steel Dam and Abandoned Railroad Tunnel

In the 1880's -1890's, the ATS&F railroad was making it way across northern Arizona. Near Ashfork Arizona a very large steel dam was constructed to back up water in Johnson Canyon. This water was used to supply the steam locomotives. The dam is still there today doing its job.

Steel Dam

Downstream View

The Steel Structure

In the 1960's, the section of railroad through Johnson Canyon was abandoned in favor of a route that had less steep grades. There is an interesting tunnel in upper Johnson Canyon. The tunnel is in great shape and looks like it could easily be put back into service.

Abandoned Grade

Western Portal

Eastern Portal

A few years after the construction of the Steel Dam, a second dam of quarried stone was built in the same area. It is known as the Stone Dam. I have misplaced my pictures of that dam.

Home