We enjoyed a grand final day on National Geographic Sea Bird’s Columbia River trip. We climbed aboard jet boats and headed up the Snake River into the Hells Canyon region for the day. Hells Canyon is the deepest canyon in North America, and it is steeped in dramatic scenery and wildlife. Both golden and bald eagles were observed on the river, as well as bighorn sheep. Black bears were not seen, but their scat was visible in the pear orchard where they have been enjoying the fall harvest. We had a wonderful lunch at Garden Creek, a Nature Conservancy area with a wonderful view of the river. Back aboard National Geographic Sea Bird, we began the process of winding down after our wonderful week on the Columbia River.
10/23/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Walla Walla
We awoke anchored at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers, National Geographic Sea Lion perfectly framed by the Ed Hendler and Pioneer Memorial Bridges. Departing shortly after breakfast, everyone headed to shore for a full day of adventure, education, and indulgent wine tasting. Once ashore, some of us headed to Seven Hills Vineyard for an exclusive tour while others explored the rich cultural history of Fort Walla Walla. We reconvened at the stunning Seven Hills Tasting Room in downtown Walla Walla for a spectacular lunch and our first tasting of the day. After lunch we split up again, with options for excursions ranging from wine tasting to ice cream sampling, shopping, and a visit to the Whitman Mission National Historic Site. Our Zodiac rides back to the ship were perfectly timed with the sunset, making for a beautiful end to a busy day exploring the Pasco and Walla Walla area. After yet another exceptional wine and dinner pairing by Wine Specialist Kristine, a sporty game of Pacific Northwest Trivia ensued!