Cruising the Columbia River
It was a cold, clear morning when we began our first full day aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird. Sunrise occurred as we were lifting up through The Dalles Lock and Dam, illuminating beautiful Mt. Hood off our stern.
Today was relaxing and easy, and we cruised along the length of the upper, navigable Columbia River. By late morning, we were out on the bow, enjoying views of amazing geology, Maryhill Museum, and a recreation of Stonehenge, erected by Sam Hill.
After our morning drill we began a transit through John Day Lock. As we entered the lock chamber, we heard and saw two red-tailed hawks alongside the river’s edge. Their distinct call was unmistakable, but was further reinforced by the visible red color on one hawk’s tail feathers. Seeing a lock like John Day was a new experience for many guests, as the vertical lift was an impressive 104 feet today! After exiting the lock, we observed many western grebes diving for food in the lake created upriver by the dam. This was all made complete by a surprise visit from Hotel Manager Anna Marie and Senior Steward Rebecca, with hot chocolate, whipped cream and peppermint schnapps!
Historian Harry Fritz introduced us to the Corps of Discovery and the first half of their epic journey across the Louisiana Territory. After lunch, many of us snoozed for a bit of the afternoon. Naturalist Berit Solstad discussed Columbia River salmon and the impact they have had on generations of people living along the river system. Shortly thereafter, we arrived at McNary Lock and were able to see the fish-bypass systems adjacent to it.
The evening was clear and calm and we had the opportunity for conversation and camaraderie. We ended our first day onboard with a recapitulation of all we had discovered, and as night fell once again, we departed the Columbia and entered the Snake River.
