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.
About Bonneville Lock and Dam
Reviews & Ratings
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August 12, 2025Sue PSo much better than expected
This place was great. I had read good reviews and wanted to check it out after waterfall overload. So glad we spent a couple of hours here. Had planned for a shorter visit but we actually spent over 2 hours. Arrived in time to learn something from the host when checking in, then watched the video, checked out the fish ladder and then powerhouse 1. Really enjoyed watching around the facility and everyone there was super knowledgeable. Went over to fish hatchery after which was pretty impressive as well. Make time to visit when you are in the area.
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August 10, 2025mrc282
one of the most important hydroelectric dam in US
the dam spans two different states (oregon and washington) and can be visited from either end. however, there is no road connecting in straight line from one end of the OR dam to the other end of WA dam. I have visited the WA side (Cascades Island) several years ago. his time around, I had the chance to visit the dam on OR side (Robins and Bradford Islands). you can do all 3 islands in one day, just require a U-shape loop, and make sure you arrive before it closes at 5 pm. I would say the visits to both are fairly similar, with fish ladders being the main attraction. but I think there are more things to see / do on the OR side
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July 1, 2025Sandy O
Watching the fish is a highlight
At the entrance your vehicle will be checked, so just be prepared. Nothing to worry about, just a security precaution. When you arrive at the Bradford Island Visitors Center you will get to check out several floors of information. The lower floor has the fish counters and viewing areas where you can see the fish swimming through. The fish counters keep track of each species and the number that travel through the fish ladder safely upriver. There is a lot of information regarding the fish and the lock and dam.
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June 21, 2025JaJkH
Well worth your time
A lot to see and do. very modern with restrooms and souvenir shop on site. Watch the fish pass through the dam through the glass windows. a good place to stretch your legs .
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January 16, 2025Debra RInteresting
The curators have a lot of information to share on the building and history of the dam. There is also a book shop on sight. Be sure to go to the top and lower levels to see the dam and the salmon ladder.