Summer recreational lock schedule now in effect on Columbia River

PORTLAND, Ore. – Recreational boaters navigating the three lower Columbia River dams—Bonneville, The Dalles, and John Day—now have expanded access to pass through the navigation locks for the summer season.  

The summer 2026 locking schedule, which runs through Sept. 14, 2026, is designed to accommodate increased recreational boat traffic during the peak summer months. 

During this summer schedule, recreational vessels take precedence over commercial vessels and will be allowed passage at designated times. Lock operators may also, at their discretion, allow recreational vessels to pass through alongside commercial craft when conditions permit. Vessel operators should contact the lock control room 30 minutes prior to their desired locking time. 

The lock schedules are in effect now through Sept. 14, 2026:  

Recreational boaters pass through locks at their own risk. It is the policy of the Portland District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that everyone on board must have a personal flotation device, which should be worn throughout the entire lockage. 

Commercial vessels will continue to be locked through upon arrival except during the times specified for recreational vessels. 
  

FOR NON-MOTORIZED VESSELS (KAYAKS, PADDLE BOARDS, ETC.) 

Carrying or transporting non-motorized recreational craft and other vessels that cannot safely pass through the lock around the dam—known as portaging—is the preferred method of transport. Non-motorized craft on the Columbia River can only be locked through if moored to a motorized assist vessel. 

At the discretion of the lock operator, recreational vessels may be allowed to lock through with commercial craft. 
  

LOCKAGE FOR SPECIAL GROUPS 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers may consider special lockages outside the scheduled times for flotillas or other unique events sponsored by yacht clubs, marinas and similar groups. At all times, fish transportation vessels take precedence over recreational and commercial vessels. 

To arrange such special lockages, users must provide at least 24 hours' advance notice to ensure the appropriate operations manager, or their designated representative, can coordinate the lockage. 

Bonneville Lock and Dam (river mile 145): 541-374-8323 
The Dalles Lock and Dam (river mile 191): 541-506-8211 
John Day Lock and Dam (river mile 216): 541-739-1050 

HOW TO LOCK THROUGH SAFELY 

Safety first: Safety is the prime consideration when locking any type of recreational vessel through a lock. Operators must require all passengers to wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket. 

Boaters should follow instructions from the lock operator while they’re in or near the locks. Lock operators are there to help guide vessels through safely, and they have the final say on whether a vessel is suitable to lock through.

Radio ahead: Vessels equipped with marine VHF-FM Channel 14 should contact the lock operator as soon as contact can be made, or at least 30 minutes before arrival at the lock. Vessels equipped with marine VHF-FM Channel 14 should use the appropriate call sign. Radio is the preferred contact method. Lock operators can also be contacted by phone. 

Boaters without radios should look for signs directing them to pull cord signals and intercoms located up- and downstream from the lock. Pull the cord to signal the lock operator. Speak directly to the lock operator over the intercom. 

Lock operator instructions: Please follow all directions from the lock operator when using the locks or operating in the vicinity of the locks. Lock operator has final authority on the suitability of a craft for lockage. The order of passage through the lock is at the discretion of the lock operator. The boat arriving first usually will be locked through first, but there are exceptions. Commercial vessels and government contract vessels take precedence between Sept.15 and May 15. 

Signals for entering and exiting the lock: Enter when the green light is on. Stand clear when the red light is on. The lock operator may signal the lock is ready for entry by sounding one long blast on an air horn, or ready for exit by sounding one short blast. 

“How to lock through” visual guide: usace.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p16021coll11/id/2887 

Safety guidelines for recreational vessels on Columbia, Snake rivers: www.nwp.usace.army.mil/Media/News-Releases/Article/3046390/corps-updates-safe-lockage-policy-for-recreational-vessels-on-columbia-snake-ri/ 

BACKGROUND  
The Columbia-Snake rivers inland navigation system, which stretches 360 miles from Portland, Oregon, to Lewiston, Idaho, provides critical benefits to business and the public. Approximately 9 million tons of cargo valued at over $3 billion is barged on the Columbia-Snake River System annually. The navigation system contributes jobs, facilitates import and export trade, and benefits the economy, environment and quality of life in the Pacific Northwest.