Shasta Dam is a curved gravity dam across the Sacramento River at Lake Shasta and provides beautiful views of the lake and Mt. Shasta. The dam generates hydroelectric power and forms the largest reservoir in California. It served an important role in World War II providing electricity to California factories, and still plays a vital part in the management of state water resources today. There are free, guided tours of the Shasta Dam year round, each taking two to three hours. The tours comprise a 428-foot elevator ride to the base of the dam, and visits to the dam's inner galleries and the powerhouse among other areas. There are lawns and trails adjacent to the dam for picnicking, cycling, and exploring.