Native legends describe a 'Bridge of the Gods' crossing the Columbia River. When it collapsed, it formed Cascade Rapids โ a two-mile waterfall stretch Lewis and Clark saw. Scholars date the collapse to around 700 CE. Legends describe a long dark tunnel under the bridge as the only river passage. ๐
Bridge of the Gods Legend and Tunnel

Site mentioned
๐ Bridge of the Gods
Key facts
- Native American legends describe a rock bridge called 'Bridge of the Gods' crossing the Columbia River
- When it collapsed, it became the Cascade Rapids - a two-mile stretch of waterfalls
- Lewis and Clark and other explorers saw signs of recent collapse including underwater trees
- Scholars believe it collapsed in the early to mid-700s
- Native accounts mention a long, dark, scary tunnel under the bridge as the only way down the river
- Legends place the bridge predating the current tribes, created by the gods
Sources
lewisandclarkjournals.unl.edu
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lewisandclarkjournals.unl.edu
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lewisandclarkjournals.unl.edu
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historylink.org
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lewis-clark.org
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lewis-clark.org
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