Bonneville Dam

History & Background

Bonneville Dam is a landmark of Pacific Northwest engineering and history. Built during the Great Depression as a Works Progress Administration project, it was the first federal dam on the Columbia River, completed in 1938. The dam was a massive undertaking that provided jobs, hydroelectric power, and navigation improvements to the region. Named after Captain Benjamin Bonneville, a U.S. Army officer and early explorer of the West, the dam remains a vital part of the region's infrastructure while also serving as a fascinating visitor attraction focused on salmon conservation and river history.

How to Get There

What to Expect

The Bonneville Dam experience centers around the Bradford Island Visitor Center, where you can watch migrating salmon and steelhead through underwater viewing windows as they navigate the fish ladders. The fish ladder viewing room is mesmerizing, especially during peak migration seasons (spring through fall). The visitor center features interactive exhibits on hydropower, fish biology, and dam construction. You can also tour the powerhouse and see the massive generators up close.

Just downstream, the Bonneville Fish Hatchery is home to a stunning collection of massive sturgeon, including one named "Herman the Sturgeon," who has been a local celebrity for decades. The hatchery grounds are beautifully landscaped with ponds, gardens, and picnic areas.

Tips for Visiting

• 1
  Visit during salmon season. Late summer through fall is the best time to see salmon migrating through the fish ladders.
• 2
  Check the visitor center hours. The center is open daily, but hours vary by season. The fish ladder viewing room is open year-round.
• 3
  Stop at the hatchery. The Bonneville Fish Hatchery is free and home to Herman the Sturgeon, a massive fish over 10 feet long.
• 4
  Bring a picnic. The grounds around the visitor center and hatchery have lovely picnic areas with river views.

Nearby Things to Do

The dam is located right at the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. Cascade Locks is a short drive away with the Bridge of the Gods, Thunder Island, restaurants, and breweries. The Historic Columbia River Highway with its many waterfalls is minutes away, and both Beacon Rock and Stevenson, WA are just across the river via the Bridge of the Gods.