We started our journey at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, and today we awoke at the confluence of the Columbia and Hood Rivers. The Hood River valley is an area of fantastic fertility, and we tasted the fruits of the fall harvest. Pears, apples, plums, and decorative squashes and pumpkins were highlights of our visit to the Draper Girls Farm. Under the misty threat of rain, we hiked along the Mosier Tunnel trail perched on the basaltic ledges of the Oregon riverside. It was a beautiful and delicious fall day on the river.
4/27/2024
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Astoria, Oregon
We reached the penultimate day of our journey in Astoria, Oregon, where the Columbia River collides with the open ocean. We were met with a typical Pacific Northwest day of gentle rains punctuated by moments of sunshine. The guests were divided to conquer this gem of a city, nestled under bridges; half headed across the river to Washington to visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment, while the other half visited the Columbia River Maritime Museum and Astoria Column. The museum and the interpretive center are both excellent examples of what the west coast can offer with regard to history and culture. Each has thoughtful exhibits that cover broad swaths of topics, and are staffed with informative and helpful faculty. After a hearty lunch on board, the groups swapped in order to have the best of both worlds. Finally, all met back aboard for the week’s final recap and guest slideshow.
