Waking up this morning on the National Geographic Sea Lion, we were greeted with cool fresh air that had the wonderful forest smell of the Pacific Northwest. We sailed through the amazing Columbia River Gorge as we passed Beacon Rock and the volcanic mountains of the Cascade Range.
As we stretched on our yoga mats, huge basalt columns came into view on the port side of the ship. We spotted a bald eagle high in the trees on the starboard side.
We learned several interesting things about the geology of the area from our naturalist Ivan. The gorge was not carved by glaciers but rather by close to 100 floods that came through 10,000 to 18,000 years ago. The basalt columns that rose up around the river were formed by large lava flows that cooled over many years.
Our first set of locks was at the Bonneville Dam. What an amazing engineering feat. Continuing down the river we saw Native American fishing platforms and passed many salmon fishermen in boats. Despite the summer’s heat they have had a record breaking season.
Next, coaches took us to the base of the spectacular 611 feet Multnomah Falls. It is the most photographed waterfall in America. Many headed up the steep path to the top of the falls while others went as far as the bridge to take photographs.
In the afternoon we sailed on to the town of Hood River. One group visited a local fruit farm in view of Mt. Hood. The weather was sunny and warm so several of the group took advantage of it to “catch some rays.”
Another group visited the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum. They have one of the most extensive collections of antique airplanes and cars in the United States.
Wine tasting at the Cathedral Ridge Winery was our last stop of the day. It was situated on beautiful grounds with a nice view of Mt. Adams.
This evening we dined on a sumptuous feast of locally sourced crab. Another day of wonderful sights, sounds and tastes along the Columbia River!
