Columbia and Snake Rivers Journey

Retrace the Pacific Northwest portion of Lewis and Clark’s epic 19th-century expedition with this seven-day itinerary along the Snake and Columbia Rivers aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird or National Geographic Sea Lion. Cruise through the lush landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge, the mountains of the Cascade Range, and the historical lands of the Native American tribes the peripatetic duo encountered. Dine on locally-sourced cuisine, and sample the region’s famed wines and microbrews.

Day 1 — Portland, Oregon

After boarding our ship, cruise the lower reaches of the Willamette River through downtown Portland, nicknamed Rose City for its many rose gardens.
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Day 2 — Astoria, Oregon

Sail to the mouth of the Columbia River at Astoria, Oregon. At Fort Clatsop, walk through the full-scale reconstructed fort where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark hunkered down for the wet winter of 1805-1806 before their return journey to St. Louis. Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which chronicles the history of river navigation and this port town. In the afternoon, choose between a visit to Cape Disappointment (the headland where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean), or the Lewis and Clark Wildlife Refuge by Zodiac or kayak (weather permitting).
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Day 3 — Columbia River Gorge and Hood River

Sail east on the Columbia River, which forms the border between Washington and Oregon. Deepening canyons signify the beginning of the 100-mile stretch called the Columbia River Gorge. Begin exploration of the Gorge with visits to Bonneville Lock and Dam and Beacon Rock. Hike within sight of one of the Gorge’s myriad waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, one of the highest in the U.S. The ship continues on to Hood River, where you’ll tour a family farm and samle local fruit with spectacular views of Mount Hood and Mount Adams as a backdrop. End the day with a tour of a local vineyard and a tasting of their award-winning wines.
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Day 4 — The Dalles

Visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center to learn about the region’s natural history. Hike or bike among the cliffs and cascades along Highway 30, one of the original east-west, coast-to-coast U.S. highways. In the afternoon, visit the Maryhill Museum of Art with its eclectic collection of native baskets, Rodin sculptures, and chess sets.
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Day 5 — Palouse River

This tributary of the Snake River empties out from a remote, narrow canyon and its calm waters are ideal for exploring with the ship’s Zodiacs and kayaks. Visit Palouse Falls, where cascading waters plunge into pools below. Afterward, sail up the Snake River, enjoying a taste of local specialties.
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Day 6 — Clarkston, Washington

Near the Idaho border, Clarkston, Washington, is at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. Guests can opt for a jet boat ride up the Snake River over rapids and past abandoned homesteads and gold mines to Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America.
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Day 7 — Clarkston

Transfer through Lewiston, Idaho, or Spokane, Washington for your flight home.
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