Exit 40 of I-84
Cascade Locks, Oregon
The first time my husband convinced me to stop at the Bonneville Dam and Fish Hatchery, I was skeptical at best. To me, a fish hatchery sounds about as exciting as a coma, but kids love it. You also can’t beat the price (free!) or the stunning Oregon scenery. The dam is about 40 miles east of Portland, Oregon, and perfect for a quick stop after or before entering the city. (Another great–but widely known and easy to spot–option is Multnomah Falls, a bit further west, toward Portland.) The hatchery is set in a nice wooded area featuring lots of, well…hatcheries…and ponds, some featuring sturgeons up to six feet long! At the adjacent dam, learn about the Columbia River’s history and then go downstairs to the large glass viewing window to watch wild salmon ‘jumping’ up the fish ladder as they migrate to the other side of the dam (or go outside and see it up close in nice weather).
Date last visited: June 2008
Distance off the interstate: Just about one minute!
Bathrooms: At both the hatchery and the dam.
Food Services: In my recollection, no. There are many picnic tables and grassy spots at the hatchery, however, and tables on the deck of the dam museum. There’s also a gift shop (what they could possibly tempt me with, I don’t know, but then again I’m not a huge fan of fish).
Website: Bonneville Dam and Fish Hatchery
Directions: From I-84, simply take Exit 40 and follow the signs.
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