Today was filled to the brim with activities as we explored the Columbia River Gorge where the mighty river pushes through the Cascade Mountain Range. While on deck we saw half a dozen harbor seals and a number of bald eagles. After breakfast we entered the lock at Bonneville Dam, and watched as the ship rose 70 feet to the level of the river above the dam. We joined in a chorus of Woodie Guthrie’s “Roll On Columbia” (some of us were better singers than others!). After docking at Cascade Lock, we took motor coaches to Multnomah Falls, a 620-foot cascade, full of water from the recent rains. Some eager hikers made their way up the trail toward the top of the falls.
After lunch, the National Geographic Sea Bird docked at Hood River, and we went by coach in different directions. One group sampled the local fruit and produce at Draper Girls Country Farm while others went directly to the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum, a collection of 150 old airplanes and 150 old cars, all in flying or driving condition, in three hangers covering more than three acres; there were also beautifully restored antique motorcycles and nearly every other form of human conveyance on display. Other guests sampled the wares at the Cathedral Ridge Winery before returning to the ship in a happy mood. The rain and foggy conditions today did little to dampen our enthusiasm for the attractions of the Columbia River Gorge.
