This morning had an early start to activities. We had another full day ahead of us exploring the Columbia River Gorge area. First it was off to the Western Antique Airplane & Automobile Museum, then we were heading to Draper Girls Farm for samplings of local fruits and ciders, followed by our return to the National Geographic Sea Lion for another excellent lunch. Almost immediately it was off again for an entire afternoon of exploring. First everyone went to Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and the second tallest in the country. This was followed by two options, climbing Beacon Rock, a landmark from the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and visiting the Bonneville Fish Hatchery to see the returning salmon and hatchling salmon. The special treat, however, was seeing the huge white sturgeon through a viewing window in the side of their pool! Another fabulous day on the river!
11/4/2023
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Astoria, Oregon
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.