Things To DoDestinationsParks, Forests & Wildlife AreasBonneville Lock and Dam

Bonneville Lock and Dam

Cascade Locks, Mt. Hood & Columbia River Gorge

Cascade Locks, Oregon

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating based on 635 reviews

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

September 10, 2022

desertpup

Wonderful!

We visited the Bonneville Lock & Dam on the Washington side. It is self-guided with a theater that runs a video explaining a lot of how the area was formed. The turbine viewing room was awesome to see. They have lots of informational stations explaining things all along the way. The fish ladders are amazing, but the fish viewing room was fabulous! There were so many fish swimming through, it was hard to keep track of what types of fish each of them were! They have information cards to help identify the fish. It is a must-see place. Great place for kids! The grounds are beautiful and the staff are friendly and helpful.
August 29, 2022

Richard E

Great Views

Lots of water going through this Dam. The Visitor Center is very nice, and viewing from different levels via elevator. The views are really impressive.
July 29, 2022

TheLongLongTrailer

Worth the stop

It’s a ways I’m off the highway to the visitor center. Be sure to go down to the first floor to see the fish in the fish ladders! The hatchery area is beautifully done with ponds holding enormous trout and sturgeon. Cute gift shop. Army corps of engineers run site.
July 25, 2022

Y9951ARmarks

Don't miss

A very impressive structure and interesting exhibits. And it is free! I was lucky enough to actually see a barge as it traveled through the locks. A don't miss.
July 23, 2022

sumel2016

A must see on your visit

The fish ladders are really interesting and the windows where you can see the fish go by are incredible. The gentleman who took us on the tour was very interesting and made our visit even better. The mural that must be 80 feet long was painted by a member of stafff during lockdown and is a work of art. Try and spot Bigfoot! Well worth a visit and Free too

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Wonderful!

Great Views

Worth the stop

Don't miss

A must see on your visit