Columbia River Gorge

The chill of an early morning greeted us as we went ashore in Cascade Locks, headed for Multnomah Falls. This waterfall, the most visited outdoor attraction in Oregon, is in two steps for a total of 620 feet. On this October day the Coho salmon were spawning in
Multnomah Creek, their reddish color flashing in the water. The beauty of the place caused the guests of our ship to bring forth their cameras, to attempt to record it
all.

Soon after leaving here by motor coach, we arrived at the Historic Highway State Trail.
As we walked on this highway, built in 1913-22, we delighted in the rich fall colors.
Bright sunshine and a brisk wind kept us alert. After returning to our ship, the National
Geographic Sea Lion, we had lunch and returned to our adventure. Traveling again by
motor coach, we went to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, a fine museum and
interpretive center.

To cap the day we went upstream by highway, while the ship paralleled us on the river.
At Horsethief Butte landing on the river we were picked up by our Zodiacs, in plenty of time for dinner, concluding a very active day.