Bonneville Dam
Bradford Island Visitor Center, Star Route, Cascade Locks, OR, USA
9 am-5 pm
$
historic-destination, road-trips
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Bonneville Lock and Dam is a great educational stop along the Columbia River.
There are two visitor centers, one on the Oregon side and one on the Washington Side. They are open daily 9-5pm and closed on major holidays. Best time to visit to see the fish jumping and passing through is August-November. There are up to 250,000 fish that pass through on a single day.
Bradford Island Visitors Center on the Oregon side has a large green space near the parking lot which is good for little ones to get some energy out. They also have an old fire truck on display which kids can climb on. Once inside you’ll be greeted by either a volunteer or a ranger who is happy to answer any questions. The visitor center has 5 different levels accessed by an elevator. The first ground level has displays and videos describing the history of the area, dam construction and the Columbia River. The lower level of the building is where you can watch the seasonal migrating fish through their fish ladders and learn about the migratory lifecycle of the fish that pass through. There is also a small movie theater that plays videos in a loop. Up on the rooftop floor, they have panoramic views on the Columbia River and some telescopes. Make sure to find the little kids play house which is located near picnic tables which makes for a good pit stop for some snacks.
Built and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the first powerhouse and lock were completed in 1938 to improve navigation along the river and to provide hydropower to the Pacific Northwest.
Now the lock and dam are used for power generation, irrigation, fish and wildlife habitat and recreation along the river. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987. The dam generates enough electricity to power approximately 900,000 homes.
Flush toilets, vending machines, a water fountain and a gift shop are located inside the building.
Before driving the mile road to the visitors center from the hatchery, you will be stopped by the US Army Corps of Engineers to check your truck and car before crossing over.