Columbia River Gorge
Stories like today open slowly, much like the flowers of the Columbia River Gorge. Stretching our legs after breakfast we found ourselves at the dock of The Dalles. Stepping off the Sea Lion we were surprised to see the crewmembers lined up along the dock wishing us all a grand morning adventure. As we departed for the Discovery Center, we said good-bye to the ship’s crew, knowing we would meet them down stream in the small town of Hood River.
Once we arrived at the Discovery Center we became immersed in the latest Lewis & Clark exhibition, and soon were transported back to 1805, surrounded by the multitude of gear, bundles, & boxes of cargo. A study in the rich history continued to grow as our exploration of the Discovery Center presented recreations of times gone by only to gently lead us back into the present preservation of this remarkable area.
Upon leaving, many guests enjoyed a relaxing ride to Hood River to stroll its charming streets & boutiques. While some of us, noticing the sunshine stretching through the clouds, preferred an invigorating 5 mile nature walk. We all rejoined the Sea Lion, appetites renewed, set sail as a scrumptious lunch was served, and listened for the events of the afternoon.
A call from the bridge traveled quickly through the ship, our last lock of the river was readily approaching. Bonneville Dam was anticipating us. The wind and currents through the lock often dare the navigating skills of those at the helm. Our own Second Mate, Chris Standish with ready deckhands showed how overcoming such challenges were maneuvered with ease. The Sea Lion hugged the last lock closely before carefully slipping the lines and saying good-bye.
Time passed, then slowed as a glimpse of Multnomah Falls came into view. Soon the entire 620 feet were visible. Many of us stayed out on deck, until the cloudy skies returned and ushered us back inside. We gathered in the lounge to recap the day and plan the possibilities for tomorrow.
Stories like today open slowly, much like the flowers of the Columbia River Gorge. Stretching our legs after breakfast we found ourselves at the dock of The Dalles. Stepping off the Sea Lion we were surprised to see the crewmembers lined up along the dock wishing us all a grand morning adventure. As we departed for the Discovery Center, we said good-bye to the ship’s crew, knowing we would meet them down stream in the small town of Hood River.
Once we arrived at the Discovery Center we became immersed in the latest Lewis & Clark exhibition, and soon were transported back to 1805, surrounded by the multitude of gear, bundles, & boxes of cargo. A study in the rich history continued to grow as our exploration of the Discovery Center presented recreations of times gone by only to gently lead us back into the present preservation of this remarkable area.
Upon leaving, many guests enjoyed a relaxing ride to Hood River to stroll its charming streets & boutiques. While some of us, noticing the sunshine stretching through the clouds, preferred an invigorating 5 mile nature walk. We all rejoined the Sea Lion, appetites renewed, set sail as a scrumptious lunch was served, and listened for the events of the afternoon.
A call from the bridge traveled quickly through the ship, our last lock of the river was readily approaching. Bonneville Dam was anticipating us. The wind and currents through the lock often dare the navigating skills of those at the helm. Our own Second Mate, Chris Standish with ready deckhands showed how overcoming such challenges were maneuvered with ease. The Sea Lion hugged the last lock closely before carefully slipping the lines and saying good-bye.
Time passed, then slowed as a glimpse of Multnomah Falls came into view. Soon the entire 620 feet were visible. Many of us stayed out on deck, until the cloudy skies returned and ushered us back inside. We gathered in the lounge to recap the day and plan the possibilities for tomorrow.
