PORTLAND, ORE. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the city of The Dalles, and The Dalles Chamber of Commerce announced a new shuttle system to transport visitors to Paterson Park and to powerhouse tours at The Dalles Dam beginning Aug. 31.
"We are excited to begin shuttle operations from The Dalles Dam Visitor Center to Paterson Park and offer educational tours of The Dalles Dam on a regular basis," said Kelly Thomas, The Dalles Dam natural resource manager. "The partnership between the Corps, the city and the chamber of commerce makes the powerhouse tours and access to Paterson Park possible."
The city o f The Dalles will offer round-trip shuttle rides from the visitor center to Paterson Park, located near the powerhouse. The shuttle also will take registered participants to powerhouse tours. The tours and shuttles are free, however the city of The Dalles welcomes donations to help fund the shuttle service. Visitors may also use the Riverfront Trail to reach Paterson Park on foot or by bike.
The shuttle will transport visitors to Paterson Park while the visitor center is open, except during tours, which are scheduled at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Beginning Aug. 31, the visitor center is open Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The visitor center, shuttle, and powerhouse tours are all accessible to visitors with disabilities.
Visitors must check in at the front desk of The Dalles Dam Visitor Center and must provide photo identification. Pre-registering for tours is strongly recommended, as space is limited.
Pets are welcome at Patterson Park but must remain on a leash and owners are responsible for picking up after them. Pets are not allowed on powerhouse tours.
The Dalles Dam Visitor Center is located at exit 87 of Interstate 84. Turn east onto Brett Clodfelter Way and follow the road to the end. For more information and to register for tours, please contact The Dalles Lock and Dam Ranger Office at 541-506-7857 or the visitor center at 541-296-9778.
Release no. 12-048