Travel has looked a bit different this year for many of us, but at least we all have the opportunity to explore more of our own backyard. Oregon is a beautiful state with plenty of charming towns, rugged hikes, and unique day trips awaiting you. If you have yet to experience the Bonneville Lock and Dam, check it out. Not only is it an activity you can enjoy safely outdoors, it’s a great place to learn about local history.

The Bonneville Lock and Dam is located on the majestic Columbia River, about 40 miles from Portland.
Gary A / TripAdvisor
This is one of several dams on the Columbia's main stem along the Washington and Oregon border.
When you visit, you can watch a massive wall of water move at an average speed of 1,200 gallons of water per second.
paolo d / TripAdvisor
It's pretty impressive to see in person.
The dam's roots go back to the Great Depression, when it created quite a few jobs in the area during its construction.
Prerak P / TripAdvisor
At the time it was built, it held a world record for its size.

Related Stories

This Day Trip To Multnomah Falls Is One Of The Best You Can Take In Oregon

This Day Trip To Multnomah Falls Is One Of The Best You Can Take In Oregon

 Admission-Free, Hoyt Arboretum In Oregon Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination

Admission-Free, Hoyt Arboretum In Oregon Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination

 5 Of The Most Scenic Train Rides In Oregon You Can Take

5 Of The Most Scenic Train Rides In Oregon You Can Take
With two powerhouses producing about five billion kilowatts of electricity each year, the dam provides a massive amount of power for the Pacific Northwest -- about 80%, in fact.
Kevin B / TripAdvisor
The Columbia River Basin alone provides more than 40% of all hydroelectric generation in the U.S.
The dam’s two visitor centers delve into the history behind the structures and all the efforts that went into it.
Myrna G / TripAdvisor
Both visitor centers are temporarily closed due to current conditions, but they'll resume their daily operations as soon as possible.
Up to 250,000 fish pass through the waters of the fish ladder on any given day during high season, which is August - November.
idyjones / TripAdvisor
You can check out the Chinook, sockeye, coho, and steelhead salmon swimming through the fish ladder at the fish hatchery.
Admission to Bonneville Dam is free, and it makes for a fun-filled family day trip. It's a perfect spot to reconnect with nature.
Pernellevoyage / TripAdvisor
The dam is still owned and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and it's on a designated national historic site.

Have you ever been to the Bonneville Lock and Dam?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Oregon

Featured Addresses
Bonneville Dam, Cascade Locks, OR 97014, USA