Cascade Locks

History & Background

Cascade Locks is a historic community that takes its name from the locks built in the 1890s to allow riverboats to navigate the Cascade Rapids of the Columbia River. Before the locks were built, the Cascade Rapids were a treacherous stretch of whitewater that forced boats to portage around them. The Cascade Locks and the portage railroad that served them were instrumental in the economic development of the region, allowing goods and people to travel safely up and down the Columbia River. Today, the town is a peaceful, scenic destination that preserves its rich maritime and railroad heritage.

How to Get There

What to Expect

Cascade Locks packs a lot of charm into a small footprint. Thunder Island, connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge, is a beautiful park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a fishwheel exhibit. The Marine Park along the waterfront offers stunning views of the Bridge of the Gods and the Columbia River. The town is home to several excellent local businesses, including Thunder Island Brewing, which serves craft beer with a view of the bridge.

In summer, the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler offers narrated tours along the river, providing a unique perspective on the gorge's history and scenery. The town also has a handful of unique shops, a grocery store, and several restaurants serving everything from pub fare to Mexican cuisine.

Tips for Visiting

• 1
  Take the sternwheeler tour. The Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler offers narrated 2-hour tours from the Marine Park with stunning gorge views. Check the schedule in advance.
• 2
  Visit Thunder Island Brewing. A local favorite with excellent craft beer, great food, and an outdoor patio with views of the Bridge of the Gods.
• 3
  Explore Thunder Island. Walk across the pedestrian bridge to explore the island's trails, fishwheel exhibit, and picnic spots.
• 4
  Visit the museum. The Cascade Locks Historical Museum offers a fascinating look at the town's lock and railroad history.

Nearby Things to Do

Cascade Locks is perfectly positioned for exploring the Columbia River Gorge. The Historic Columbia River Highway with all its waterfalls is minutes away. Bonneville Dam is just west of town, and Beacon Rock and Stevenson are a short drive across the Bridge of the Gods. The Eagle Creek Trail trailhead is nearby, and the Pacific Crest Trail passes right through town.