Bonneville Locks Observation

An interesting story of the Columbia River controlled now by human intervention to prevent flooding of the surrounding areas and produce of electricity, while preserving the aquatic life. The place can be freely visited with great views over and under the river

Of the many things to do around Bonneville Dam, viewing the lock is often overlooked. The locks visitor center has some nice displays and friendly volunteers who will answer all your questions.nDue to the corps tight budget, the locks area is only open between Memorial Day and Labor day from 1 to 4 PM . If you're lucky, a barge may come through the locks which is an amazing thing to see.nJust passed the locks, is Robins Island where the rangers have their RVs but the island is open to the public and has a playground and a picnic shelter.

It amazing the core provides electricity and it's so amazing to see behind the scenes and how a generator really works. I love the fish view.

Like watching barges and other type of boats and ships pass though the locks. The locks observation deck is only open from 1PM - 4PM. If you are a boat operator, it does not matter what type of boat you have the locks can handle the lockage for you. Just radio the lock operator on your VHF radio by identifying yourself or use the on shore intercom system.

Interesting place to visit. Awesome engineering feat. Impressive to watch large barges float in, rise up or lower down 60ft and glide out to continue their journey. One of the many interesting parts of the Bonneville Lock and Dam