A Wild Red River Tamed--A brief history of the steps to contain and control the mighty Colorado River. Prior to man's control of the Colorado River, it ran red, wild, and full of silt. Today we have the two largest man-made reservoirs in the U.S. on the Colorado River, an incomparable rafting experience in the Grand Canyon, and power and water for people living in the west. The crown jewel of the Colorado is without a doubt, Lake Powell. Read the history of each of Lake Powell's canyons to enhance your Lake Powell visit and knowledge of the history of the Colorado River basin.