Bonneville Dam, Hydroelectric gravity dam on Columbia River, United States
Description
The Bonneville Dam stretches more than a kilometer between Oregon and Washington, using the drop of the Columbia River to generate power. The facility includes two powerhouses positioned at different points, along with a lock system for vessel traffic.
History
Construction began during the economic downturn as a work project and was completed within a few years. The facility was among the earliest large structures on the Columbia and transformed navigation upstream.
Culture
Fishing has been part of daily life along the Columbia River for centuries, and trails near the structure still recall that tradition. The visitor center shows how moving water produces power and what that means for the region.
Practical
The facility is accessible from both riverbanks, with parking available on the Oregon side. Visitors should allow enough time to see both the technical installations and the observation windows.
Did you know?
Underwater windows show salmon, trout, and other fish climbing through specially built ladders. These passages allow the animals to bypass the barrier and continue their migration routes.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Multnomah County).
Multnomah Falls
15.6 km
Columbia River Gorge
13.4 km
Bridge of the Gods
3.7 kmBridge of the Gods
2.5 km
Beacon Rock State Park
6.2 km
Oneonta Gorge
12.1 km
Punch Bowl Falls
4.4 km
Wahclella Falls
3 km
Horsetail Falls
11.6 km
Wahkeena Falls
16.5 km
Cascade Locks and Canal
4.4 km
Ainsworth State Park
10.7 km
Table Mountain
6.3 km
Metlako Falls
4 km
Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge
11.5 km
Sheridan State Scenic Corridor
2.7 km
Greenleaf Peak
8 km
Benson State Recreation Area
16.1 km
John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor
4.5 km
Lake Bonneville
12.2 km
Twister Falls
9.8 km
Fort Raines
2 km
Cascade Locks Work Center
8.7 km
Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum
5.6 km
Beacon Rock
6.5 km
Home Valley Beach
14.5 km
Bonneville Dam Historic District
427 m
Multnomah Falls Lodge and Footpath
15.6 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes