Beach Life in the Intermountain West

5 Locations | Curated by Olivia Hall, Northern Arizona University

"Beach Life" in the Intermountain West focuses on the lakeside sandy shores that foster human connection, relaxation, and enjoyment through activities such as swimming, jet-skiing, boating, and more. Paired with commercial development resulting in convenient lodging and marinas, these beaches have become successful vacation opportunities. While presently connected to recreational activities, these beaches also have rich history beginnings with Native origins, continuing through later settlers, and then state and national park ownership. This tour illustrates the history of these beaches and the amenities and activities that make a pseduo-coast life accessible to individuals in the Intermountain West.

Originally discovered by the Indigenous tribes in the region and created by the growing reservoir behind Glen Canyon Dam, Wahweap Beach developed into a sought-after vacation spot through the construction of Wahweap Lodge by the Greene Family.
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Kiva Beach on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe attracts thousands of visitors annually who seek a beach vacation and historic interpretation provided by the Tallac Historic Site. Visitors enjoy swimming and sunbathing, and although there is no boat launch, people are welcome to bring their…
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The "key" to beach life in Wyoming can be found at Keyhole Beach. The land originally belonged to the Sioux, however, the U.S. government claimed it in 1877 and the beach was later created by the reservoir behind Keyhole Dam in 1952.
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