Cascade Locks is located 40 miles east of Portland, in the middle of the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. Despite the name, the town has no operational locks today.

The town’s population was 1,144 according to the 2010 census and estimated at around 1,159 in 2015.

Cascade Locks Brief History

Until 1896, the segment of the Columbia River near today’s Cascade Locks was unsuitable for navigation due to the Cascades Rapids stretching for over two miles. Described as the “great rapids of the Cascades” by Lewis and Clark, the rapids were also known as the “great cascades”. That is precisely how the Cascade Mountain Range got its name.

Most attempts to navigate the Cascades Rapids bore disastrous results; travelers had to stop here for the land detour. The nature of the logistics eventually gave rise to a small settlement in the 1850s that grew to become the Cascade Locks of today. In 1896, the construction of the Cascade Locks and Canal was completed, allowing safe passage through the rapids.

With the commencement of the Bonneville Dam construction down the river in 1934, the city experienced an influx of workers that eventually necessitated its formal incorporation on June 19, 1935, making Cascade Locks one of the oldest towns on the Columbia River.

After the Bonneville Dam was completed in 1938, Lake Bonneville, the Dam’s reservoir, expanded behind it and submerged the Cascade Locks and Canal, leaving only their upper part visible.

The city lost its use as a transportation center, but retained the status of a timber and fishing hub, and continued to prosper.

The city thrived throughout most of the twentieth century. Significant changes happened in 1986 when the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Act was passed, and all major construction in the area was completed. By the end of the 1980s, lumber mills were closed, and the National Forests were closed to logging. The timber industry gave way to tourism, which remains on the rise.

One cannot talk about Cascade Locks without mentioning the Bridge of the Gods, a magnificent steel construction located downstream. This bridge spans 1,856 feet across the Columbia River. Opened in 1926, it links Oregon’s Interstate 84 with Washington’s State Route 14 and sees about 1.6 million vehicles cross annually. This toll bridge stands just downstream from town and remains a vital and iconic part of the Gorge.

Bridge of the Gods: Gateway to Gorge Adventure and Legends

Cascades Locks - Things to Do

Today, Cascade Locks is considered one of the best sailing places owing to its proximity to Lake Bonneville and unique wind patterns above it. Windsurfing, hiking, biking, fishing, and many other recreational activities are also available just 30 minutes away from Portland.

Marine Park and Thunder Island

Marine Park, which stretches along the Columbia River where the Cascade Locks and Canal used to be, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The park has picnic areas, playgrounds, and the Cascade Locks Historical Museum. Located within Marine Park, Thunder Island offers breathtaking views of the river and is ideal for picnicking and photography. A pedestrian bridge connects the mainland and the island.

An authentic paddle-wheel riverboat departing from the park, Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler offers a variety of cruises including Bonneville Dam Lockage Tour, dining, and special events cruises.

Cascade Locks Fishing

Marine Park in Cascade Locks is a favorite fishing spot, thanks to its calm channels and the protective presence of nearby Thunder Island. These features create ideal conditions for shore fishing, especially for Chinook and coho salmon, steelhead, smallmouth bass, and American shad.

Anglers can cast from the fishing pier, rocky banks, or near the boat launch, with spring and fall being prime seasons. A valid Oregon fishing license is required, and gear like spinners, plugs, or baited rigs work well, depending on the target species.

Top Cascade Locks Hiking Trails

Dry Creek Falls Trail, via the Pacific Crest Trail, offers an easy 4.5-mile round-trip hike with a 900-foot elevation gain, starting near the Bridge of the Gods and leading to a secluded waterfall.

Wahclella Falls Trail is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with 300-foot elevation gain through a slot canyon to a stunning waterfall. It is suitable for families and casual hikers.

Eagle Creek Trail to Punchbowl and Tunnel Falls is a challenging 12.7-mile round-trip with 1,300-foot elevation gain hike featuring waterfalls, cliffside paths, and the iconic Tunnel Falls.

Marine Park Campground is open year-round and features 16 sites, including 12 with water and electric hookups and four without. Amenities include Wi-Fi, restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Making a reservation during the peak season from May to September is advisable. To reserve a site, contact the campground manager directly at campground@portofcascadelocks.org or call 503-637-6911.

If camping isn't your preference, Cascade Locks and its surrounding areas offer various lodging options, including vintage charm hotels, hot springs resorts, and riverfront motels with convenient access to outdoor activities.

Lodging in Cascade Locks

Hot Springs Resorts and Spa Options

Carson Hot Springs Golf & Spa Resort, located 10 miles east across the river in Washington, features natural hot springs, a full-service spa, and a golf course, catering to those seeking relaxation and recreation.

Book Your Stay at Carson Hot Springs Golf & Spa Resort

Another excellent lodging option near Cascade Locks is the Bonneville Hot Springs Resort & Spa, located in North Bonneville, Washington — just a short 12-mile drive across the Bridge of the Gods. This resort offers a serene retreat with mineral springs-fed pools, spacious soaking tubs, saunas, and spa services.

Book Your Stay at Bonneville Hot Springs Resort & Spa