- Located about halfway between Portland and Hood River, Oregon.
- Visitors’ Center is open 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, 362 days a year.
- Tours can be scheduled by appointment.
- Lovely scenery, observation windows revealing annual fish runs, and a museum recommend this stop on your tour of the Gorge.
Overview
Bonneville Lock and Dam were completed in 1937 to produce hydroelectric power and to ease navigation through the Columbia River Gorge. The dam comprises several structures, including two powerhouses, which combine to connect the Columbia’s Oregon and Washington shores. Oregon’s oldest fish hatchery also resides here. Named after Army officer Benjamin Bonneville, the dam today is a popular tourist attraction, with a stunning view of the scenic Gorge and viewing windows to observe fish migrating up the ladders.
Location/Directions
Bonneville Lock and Dam
Cascade Locks, OR 97014
(541) 374-8820
The Lock and Dam are located in the Columbia River Gorge about halfway between Portland and Hood River, Oregon on Dam Road off Interstate 84.
Hours/Seasons
The dam and fish hatchery are free to visit and open all year, but April-September are the best times for viewing the salmon migration. There are two visitors’ centers, one on each shore. Both are open from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm 362 days a year (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day). The large visitors’ center on the Oregon side includes a museum chronicling the dam’s history and showcasing native artifacts.
Tours of the dam are available by phone reservation at no charge.
More Info
For more information about Bonneville Dam or to schedule a tour, call (541) 374-8820.
