Clarkston, Washington and Hells Canyon , 9/29/2023, National Geographic Sea Lion
Aboard the
National Geographic Sea Lion
Pacific Northwest
Although it was the last full day of our expedition, it ended on a high note with a jetboat trip into Hells Canyon. In 1806, Lewis and Clark entered this region. We may have seen the same vistas they did over 200 years ago. The 5,000-foot gorge offered breathtaking views and wildlife.
In the afternoon, we welcomed aboard guest speaker Mr. James Spence, a Nez Perce representative, and Dr. Coco Umiker for an afternoon winetasting!
It was sad to see the trip come to a close, but it was great to end it in such a fantastic way.
Alyssa Stoller grew up on the West Coast of the United States and naturally developed a deep love for the ocean. To pursue her interests, she obtained a BS in Marine Environmental Science and MSc in Marine Systems and Policies.
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O! the Joy! Hmm, we needed to rethink that one this morning, as we woke to a rainy and blustery Astoria. What this weather did give us was a taste of historic authenticity in relation to the Corps of Discovery and their experiences here in the winter of 1805-06. Our first activity this morning was amongst the magnificent exhibits of the Columbia River Maritime Museum. This world-class facility tells the story of the mighty Columbia and the treacherous results to mariners when the river shoves against the incoming tides of the Pacific Ocean. As our day progressed, we crossed the Astoria-Megler bridge to the state of Washington. At the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center the winds continued but the rain subsided, and we enjoyed a sun-drenched afternoon with an option to walk a forest trail down to Waikiki Beach. The sun and sand were a siren to us and we made an additional stop at the North Jetty to get a water-level view of the waves crashing against the rocks of the Cape Disappointment lighthouse. The day turned out anything but disappointing.
Today National Geographic Sea Bird embarked on a remarkable expedition along the Columbia River, offering our guests an immersive experience in the scenic wonders of the Pacific Northwest. We explored the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum (WAAAM) in Hood River and Draper Girls Farm before hiking at Beacon Rock and visiting the majestic Multnomah Falls. Our first stop was the WAAAM in Hood River. We explored the history of aviation and the impact of technology on transportation and the environment. Guests were exposed to vintage aircraft and automobiles on display, showcasing the ingenuity of the past in an awe-inspiring collection of craft. Following the museum visit, we headed to the nearby Draper Girls Farm, where our guests learned about the agriculture of the “Fruit Loop.” Cider tasting and sampling of local pears and apples were certainly highlights of the day. It was an immersive experience, allowing our guests to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for local agriculture. After a delicious farm-to-table lunch on National Geographic Sea Bird , we set out on a hike to Beacon Rock State Park. Our guided hike led us through lush forests, and guests marveled at the breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge from the summit and the open spaces around this noteworthy volcanic plug. We spotted plenty of birds, and we experienced the region's unique ecosystem, including its flora and fauna. Later in the afternoon we made our way to Multnomah Falls, one of the most iconic waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. Our guests had the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll to the base of the falls, where they could feel the mist on their faces and capture the beauty of the cascading waters in photographs. It was a serene and awe-inspiring experience that allowed our guests to connect with the natural world and its wonders.
National Geographic Sea Bird was abuzz with anticipation for the day’s adventures from the moment Expedition Leader Anna Kayes made her morning announcement. Following breakfast, guests and staff poured into the lounge to enjoy Historian Doug Crispin’s presentation on the historic Columbia River Highway. Crispin wove a compelling narrative, complete with century-old, hand-painted slides from the roadmaster during the 1920s. Thereafter, we filed off the ship and into The Dalles. A coach awaited at the city’s dock, and we were taken to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. At the center, guests ventured around the ground’s native pollinator garden and through its museum halls. We were even treated to an impromptu falconry display when the center’s raptor rehabilitator displayed and fielded questions about a red-tailed hawk. For lunch, we visited Crag Rat Hut, an amazing venue in the foothills of Mt. Hood. We dined on an amazing, locally-sourced lunch featuring foraged mushroom polenta and brined pork cheeks. This lunch is always a hit, and indeed, it was today. With full bellies, we headed for Mosier, Oregon, where walks along the scenic highway were the main attraction of the afternoon. From a naturalist’s perspective, this was a real treat. We witnessed two red-breasted sapsuckers boring holes into a tree. Upon vacating, the holes were drained by Anna’s hummingbirds. We departed our hikes, and after a brief stop at the Rowena Crest Overlook, we were bound for The Dalles to board National Geographic Sea Bird once more.
