The Dalles Bridge US-197
A sturdy, toll-free steel span crossing the Columbia River, offering a smooth concrete drive and scenic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dramatic light shows
The Dalles Bridge US-197
Best Time
Dramatic light shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sturdy, toll-free steel span crossing the Columbia River, offering a smooth concrete drive and scenic views.
"Enjoy a safe, stable, and completely toll-free drive across the Columbia River on this impressive bridge."
✅ No Tolls Here!
Rest assured, this bridge is completely toll-free. Enjoy the crossing without any unexpected charges.
🚗 Smooth Concrete Surface
Experience a stable and safe drive on the 100% concrete surface, unlike some other bridges.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Columbia River Crossing
Columbia River
Experience a smooth, toll-free drive over the mighty Columbia River on this historic steel span.
Concrete Surface
Bridge Deck
Enjoy a stable and safe drive on the bridge's 100% concrete surface, free from the grating found on other bridges.
Nighttime Illumination
Bridge at Night
Witness a unique spectacle as the bridge lights can sometimes shut off, creating a dramatic nighttime scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Toll-Free Crossing
Photogenic Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ No Tolls Here!
Rest assured, this bridge is completely toll-free. Enjoy the crossing without any unexpected charges.
🚗 Smooth Concrete Surface
Experience a stable and safe drive on the 100% concrete surface, unlike some other bridges.
📸 Photogenic Potential
Visit at the right time for potentially stunning photos of this impressive steel span.
💡 Unique Night Experience
Catch the bridge lights shutting off at night for a memorable and dramatic visual.
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ No Tolls Here!
Rest assured, this bridge is completely toll-free. Enjoy the crossing without any unexpected charges.
🚗 Smooth Concrete Surface
Experience a stable and safe drive on the 100% concrete surface, unlike some other bridges.
📸 Photogenic Potential
Visit at the right time for potentially stunning photos of this impressive steel span.
💡 Unique Night Experience
Catch the bridge lights shutting off at night for a memorable and dramatic visual.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Dalles Bridge US-197 for its convenient, toll-free crossing and smooth concrete surface, offering a stable and safe drive over the Columbia River. While some appreciate its photogenic potential, particularly at night, others express a desire for the removal of the nearby dam to restore natural waterfalls.
"Don't worry, you won't receive any bill by email for using this bridge."
kika kika
"It's a very sturdy old steel span bridge over the Columbia River between Washington State and The Dalles, Oregon, and there's no toll. If you're there at the right time, it can be pretty photogenic."
Randy Hogue
"The Dalles Bridge Is Awesome especially when you come across at 11:00 at night and all of a sudden all the lights shut off I think I'll be driving back and forth at 11:00 just for that"
Amanda Wise
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Dalles Bridge US-197 spans the Columbia River, connecting Washington State and The Dalles, Oregon. It's accessible via US-197 on the Oregon side and SR 14 on the Washington side. It's a straightforward drive for those traveling between these regions.
No, The Dalles Bridge US-197 is a toll-free bridge. You can cross the Columbia River without any charges.
The bridge features a 100% concrete surface, providing a stable and safe driving experience without any metal grating.
Yes, the bridge serves as a vital connection between Washington State and The Dalles, Oregon, with access points on both sides.
Generally, standard vehicles can use the bridge without issue. For oversized loads, it's always best to check with local transportation authorities for specific regulations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets or passes are required to cross The Dalles Bridge US-197, as it is a toll-free crossing.
The Dalles Bridge US-197 is open 24/7 for vehicle traffic, as it is a public roadway.
There is no admission fee for pedestrians or cyclists to use The Dalles Bridge US-197, as it is a free public crossing.
While there are no designated pull-offs, drivers can briefly stop if it is safe to do so, but it's not recommended for extended periods due to traffic flow.
For casual photography, no special permits are typically needed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the relevant authorities.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge can be photogenic at various times. Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light, and some visitors have noted a unique visual experience when the bridge lights shut off at night.
Good vantage points can be found on either the Washington or Oregon side of the river, offering different perspectives of the bridge's structure and its setting.
While driving, you can capture quick shots, but for more composed photographs, it's best to find safe pull-off areas near the bridge approaches.
The bridge's sturdy steel span and its position over the Columbia River are its main photographic features. The contrast between the bridge and the river landscape can be striking.
A standard camera with a versatile lens should suffice for most visitors. If you're interested in capturing the river or distant landscapes, a telephoto lens might be useful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🚗 Budget Travelers
This bridge offers a practical and scenic way to travel between Washington and Oregon without incurring extra costs. It's a straightforward crossing that prioritizes functionality and accessibility, making it a smart option for anyone on a tight budget exploring the Pacific Northwest.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. Some visitors have also reported a memorable experience with the bridge's lighting system at night, which can sometimes shut off, creating a unique photographic moment. Safe vantage points on either side of the river will allow for the best compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Bridge with a Past
Historically, the area around The Dalles was shaped by the Columbia River and its natural features. The presence of dams has altered the landscape, with some lamenting the loss of natural waterfalls. However, the bridge itself stands as a testament to engineering and continues to be a functional and sometimes picturesque element of the Columbia River Gorge. Its straightforward design and lack of tolls make it a favored route for those heading between the two states.
For those interested in photography, the bridge offers opportunities to capture its industrial aesthetic against the backdrop of the river and surrounding hills. While not as architecturally ornate as some other bridges, its sheer scale and the expansive river views it provides can make for compelling shots. The experience of crossing can be particularly striking at night, with some visitors noting the dramatic effect when the bridge lights are turned off.
Driving Experience and Safety
Safety is a key aspect of the bridge's design and user experience. The lack of tolls also contributes to a more streamlined passage, reducing potential distractions. While there are no designated stopping points on the bridge itself for sightseeing, drivers can find safe places to pull over on the approaches to the bridge to admire the views of the Columbia River. It's important for drivers to remain focused on the road while crossing, especially given the bridge's length and the potential for varying weather conditions.
For those concerned about the condition of the bridge, reviews consistently describe it as sturdy and well-maintained. The concrete surface is a recurring positive point, reassuring drivers about the safety and integrity of the crossing. This makes it a reliable option for both daily commuters and tourists exploring the region.
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