Morning activities were a choice of a 2.5-mile nature hike, or a 5-mile longer hike. The 5-mile hike was a lovely trek on the first scenic highway in the United States: Route 33. Mr. Sam Hill, lawyer and entrepreneur who wanted access to local waterfalls and scenic views, created the pass. He and his engineer, Sam Lancaster, designed a road of gradual grade, wider areas around corners, and one of the first guardrails. Our section was for walkers only, giving us great views. Ponderosa pines, big leaf maples, and colorful poison oaks were along the trail. Later in the day, we explored the Columbia River Discovery Center, a wonderful interpretive museum with a garden of plants identified by Lewis and Clark. A pond behind the center brought grace to the beautiful garden.
4/17/2024
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Crow Butte and Cruising the Columbia River
National Geographic Sea Bird sailed into Crow Butte in the early morning while guests on the bow enjoyed viewing the Columbia River, which forms the border between Washington and Oregon. Guests had the option of an aerobic hike, nature hike, photo hike, and history walk around Crow Butte and Crow Butte Campground. The beauty of the area awed guests, sporting views of local vineyards, dams, wildlife refuges, and the dry sagebrush-step ecosystem that dominates the area. Guests spied a variety of wildflowers and birds of prey, including spotting a golden eagle. After hiking, guests enjoyed a hot beverage on shore brought by National Geographic Sea Bird’s hospitality team, followed by an informal chat on food, wine, and energy by Naturalist Patrick MacQuarrie and Wine Expert Eric Degerman. After lunch, the ship transited the McNary Dam and Lock, the last one on the Columbia River. Guests were treated to an expert presentation on geology by Naturalist Kyle Bowman, and ‘Lewis and Clark Lead to World’s No.1 Wine’, presented by Wine Expert Eric Degerman. The evening concluded with cocktail hour, traditional recap, and dinner while sailing through the Wallula Gap.