Harnessing the once raging waters of Celilo Falls, a fortress-like concrete wall and its connected powerhouse and navigation lock extend 1.5mi across the Columbia. In 1915 the US Army Corps of Engineers dug an 8.5mi-long canal which skirted the hazardous falls, and in 1957 completion of The Dalles Dam flooded the falls area to provide hydropower and a safe route around. From the visitor center, a small train takes you to guided tours of the fish ladder and powerhouse.