Wheeler

Wheeler Dam holds the distinction of being the first dam built on the Tennessee River after Wilson Dam, constructed in just over three years during an incredible era of public infrastructure. It was my second-to-last location to visit on this entire epic trip.

To me, Wheeler feels like what you would get if you combined Kentucky Dam and Nickajack Dam. It features clean architectural lines with a very prominent gantry crane along the top deck. Riding across gives you a great elevated view, with high water levels on both sides - unlike dams like Fontana or Norris where the downstream outlet side drops drastically compared to the reservoir basin.

I rolled onto Wheeler Dam right after a heavy rain storm had cleared through the area. The air was chilly, but the view across the water was incredible, bathed in a dramatic sepia haze as the sun broke through the clouds.

I stopped the bike next to an old historic concrete core sample displayed on the grounds for a photo. It's a shame there isn't more documentation online about those core samples, because seeing those thick cylinders of solid rock and concrete really highlights the incredible craftsmanship of early dam builders.

More on Wheeler Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here and Here!