The ferry assists people and small boats in accessing Celilo Village and the Celilo Cultural Center, and is operated by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) as part of the Wasco County system of Columbia River crossings. - Treasure Valley Movers

Discovering how a quiet steward supports community and history on Oregon’s Columbia River

Tucked into the heart of Washington’s scenic Columbia River corridor runs an essential route often overlooked by casual travelers—The ferry assists people and small boats in accessing Celilo Village and the Celilo Cultural Center, operated by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) as part of the Wasco County Columbia River crossing system. For residents and visitors alike, this reliable water link is more than simple transport; it’s a vital connection to a living piece of regional heritage and a hub of cultural revitalization. As interest in Indigenous history and sustainable travel grows nationwide, the ferry’s role is drawing quiet but meaningful attention across the US.

Why this ferry system is gaining traction now

Across the country, communities are rethinking how to preserve history while improving real-accessibility. The ferry supports that dual mission by enabling safe, seasonal, and eco-conscious crossings to Celilo Village—once a thriving riverfront settlement—and the Celilo Cultural Center, a modern steward of tribal traditions, ceremonies, and storytelling. The Oregon Department of Transportation manages this operation within a broader network revamped to balance safety, environmental responsibility, and Indigenous community needs. With rising awareness of regional history and sustainable infrastructure, the ferry has emerged as a model for integrating transportation with cultural preservation—something many US communities are now studying and emulating.

How The ferry works—and why it matters

The ferry runs regular scheduled crossings along the Columbia River, specifically designed to serve visitors, tribal members, researchers, and local families traveling between both banks. Unlike larger commercial vessels, this all-people, small-boat ferry provides a quiet, accessible passage—no crowds, no rush. Operated under ODOT’s Wasco County system, the service operates with safety first: