Pros & cons
PROS
- Interpretive plaque and grave carved into the rock above the plaza
- Easy add-on stop between the Hoover Dam Café and the elevator
- Morning shade makes it a pleasant pause
CONS
- Small and easy to miss if you’re not looking up
- Crowds build later in the day around the plaza
Overview
A tender counterpoint to all the concrete and turbines, the Hoover Dam Mascot Memorial honors the construction crew’s beloved dog—affectionately remembered as “the dog who owned the dam.” It’s a quick, worthwhile stop that adds heart to the larger Hoover Dam visit.
What You’ll See
Look up to the rock face above the main plaza—between the Hoover Dam Café and the elevator—and you’ll spot the grave and marker. The interpretive panel tells the story, and visitors sometimes leave coins in tribute. It’s right in the thick of the action, so you can fold it seamlessly into your walk around the dam complex.
The Story
During the dam’s construction, a black‑furred puppy adopted the crews, commuting from Boulder City, riding skips, padding across catwalks, and boosting morale during grueling workdays. When he was tragically killed by a departing truck on February 21, 1941, the workers carved his resting place out of solid rock that same day—a gesture that still resonates.
Where It Is
Addressed at 81 Hoover Dam Access Road, the memorial sits on the Nevada‑side plaza. If you’re on the main plaza, scan the cliffside above the café and elevator and you’ll find it without much hunting.
Practicalities
You’re within the Hoover Dam complex, so expect standard security screening and building rules. Restrooms and the café are right on the plaza, making this an easy, comfortable stop while exploring the area.
Best Time to Visit
Go early to sidestep the heaviest crowds; the spot also gets helpful morning shade. Bring a camera—the plaza offers classic dam views, and the memorial’s placement makes for evocative photos.
Where it is
36.0162, -114.7402Tips for Hoover Dam Mascot Memorial
- 01Find it by looking up at the rock wall between the café and the elevator.
- 02Visit early to avoid plaza crowds and catch the morning shade.
- 03Bring a camera; the plaza delivers strong dam views alongside the memorial.
- 04If you’re touring the dam, swing by the memorial before or after your tour.
Amenities
Near Hoover Dam Mascot Memorial
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayHoover Dam Visitor CenterExhibits and tours with a 360-degree overlook of the damVisitor Center · Exhibit
0 mi awayExhibit BuildingCompact museum, helpful rangers, and a native plant gardenVisitor Center · Exhibit
0.1 mi awayHigh Scaler CafeQuick cafe by the dam with views and a solid hot dogFood · Restaurant
0.1 mi awayWinged Figures of the RepublicArt Deco bronzes and a hidden star map at Hoover DamExhibit · Parking
1.2 mi awayLakeview Overlook TrailEasy railbed hike to a sweeping Lake Mead overlook via historic tunnels.Easy · 6.4 mi · 3 hr
1.3 mi awayKingman Wash Canyon TrailDesert wash to Lake Mead with burros, views, and a swim.Moderate · 6.5 mi · 3 hr
2 mi awayGoldstrike CanyonNarrow canyon scramble to riverside hot pools near Hoover DamChallenging · 5.3 mi · 5 hr
3 mi awaySpooky Canyon TrailShort cobblestone slot with arch, side forks, and a final dryfallEasy · 1 mi · 48 min
