Located in the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area 40 miles east of Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, Bonneville Lock and Dam spans the Columbia and links the two states. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates and maintains Bonneville Lock and Dam for hydropower production, fish and wildlife protection, recreation and navigation. Since 1938, Bonneville Dam has supplied the region with inexpensive electrical power. Visitors can experience first-hand the operation of two hydroelectric powerhouses and watch migrating fish traveling upstream at the underwater viewing rooms next to the fish ladders.
TripAdvisor
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Well 'thought out' - knowledgeable friendly rangers
Very interesting, well thought-out explanation of hydro power dam and fish ladder facility. Movie and history of area including dam system and environmental concerns well done. The rangers on duty were friendly and enjoyed sharing their knowledge; very personable. Would recommend.
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Bigfoot found & now in Munich Germany
A visit to the site, like others have said, is worth the effort, especially during the salmon run season. Another unexpected pleasure was to find Bigfoot in the shop store! Not the everyday run of the mill Bigfoot, but a cool Bobble Head Bigfoot. Now my Bigfoot has been seen in Munich Germany. Where has your Bigfoot been seen?
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Highly informative and cool place to visit
This dam and power plant was a cool stop on the river gorge drive. The best part is viewing the fish ladders, I have always wanted to see salmon spawning, there are 5 floors that have different educational info, plus a view deck of the entire area with views of dam and of course you can also see the retired machinery that was used prior to updating. There is a fish hatchery on the other side , which is run by oregon wildlife department as this place is run separately by the US army .The hatchery is where you can see tons of salmon and leap out of the water!
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Cruise ship excursion 1
This is a small but well maintained dam. Good tour especially of powerhouse. Good to see a fish ladder. Movie is old and uninteresting. Nice gift shop. Very informative staff.
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Informative
Highly informative. This is my first visit to an attraction managed by us army corps of engineers. The exhibition was informative and interactive. I could not see salmons flowing through the stream due to the muddy water condition, but my visit was worth it. Expect to spend about an hour if you are interested in knowing more about history and science.