In the Wake of Lewis and Clark
This 7-day Columbia river cruise takes you to Clarkston, Astoria, and Washington’s Wine Country aboard one of Lindblad’s deluxe small ships. You’ll explore the wonders of the scenic Columbia River Gorge National Scenic area where Lewis and Clark once forged their trail to the sea.
Sail Through Eons Of Natural History
Hike, kayak and enjoy Zodiac cruises through the Columbia River Gorge for an up-close perspective of a restless land, uplifted mountain ranges and catastrophic volcanoes. Cruise through the largest basalt flow the planet has ever undergone, and explore where the largest floods in history ravaged the Earth before a series of cataclysmic landslides displaced the river. An onboard geologist shares the history as we sail the river.
Take a Culinary Journey That’s Local, Sustainable & Delectable
Embark on a culinary journey that embraces the region’s vibrant food, wine and craft beer. Stroll vineyards and sample wine, and enjoy a menu our chef has planned for this voyage that represents the bounty of the region and so much more. Our recently acquired Food Alliance affiliation ensures the vast majority of our food is locally and sustainably produced.
Experience an Engineering Marvel
Our expedition cruise ship will pass through a series of 8 locks during our river journey that will raise the ship over 700 feet — nearly ten times the height of the Panama Canal. Stand on deck and see their inner workings on our adventure cruise that sails all the way to the Washington-Idaho border.
Follow The Trail Of Lewis & Clark
Relive a chapter of history and an expedition that changed America and became a national treasure. We’ll retrace some of the route Lewis & Clark followed on their Corps of Discovery Expedition, learning many facets of their voyage by visiting sites where they camped and learning about Native American inter-tribal relationships and well-established trade routes they discovered.
Rates & Dates:
Trip Length: 7 Days/ 6 Nights
Prices from: $3,990 pp/do*
Single Price: $5,990 pp
2012 Dates: Sept 14, 15, 20, 21, 26, 27 Oct 3, 21, 27
Ships: MV Sea Bird & Sea Lion
Notes: *Per person/Double occupancy. Discount on Sept. 15th voyage only.
USA River Cruises and America’s Hub World Tours collaborate to create the most fun and exciting excursions throughout Oregon and Washington.
Daily Itinerary:
DAY 1 — Portland, Oregon/Embark Ship
In the late afternoon, embark the ship and cruise the lower part of the Willamette River, passing under the many bridges and through the center of picturesque Portland, before reaching the Columbia River.
DAY 2 — Astoria
We begin our journey by navigating the Columbia to the mouth of the river at Astoria. At Fort Clatsop, where the explorers hunkered down for the wet winter of 1805-1806, we walk through the full-scale reconstructed fort. Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which chronicles the history of river navigation and this port town. In the afternoon you can choose to visit Cape Disappointment or Zodiac and kayak in the Lewis and Clark Wildlife Refuge, conditions permitting. (B,L,D
DAY 3 — Columbia River Gorge and Hood River
This morning we find ourselves positioned off of Rooster Rock and begin our orientation to the Gorge. You’ll get a fresh perspective on such highlights as Beacon Rock, Multnomah Falls and Crown Point. Hike among towering waterfalls. Continue on to Hood River, where we’ll have a tour of the historic Gorge White House and farm, with its spectacular views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams. Enjoy lunch in the farm’s dahlia garden before visiting a nearby winery for a tasting and tour. (B,L,D)
DAY 4 — The Dalles/Maryhill Museum
Visit the Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center to learn about the region’s natural history. Hike or take bicycles along historic Highway 30. In the afternoon we’ll visit the Maryhill Museum and view its extensive and eclectic collection of native baskets, Rodin sculptures and other fascinating exhibits. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 — Exploring the Palouse River
The still water of the Palouse River is the perfect mirror for the surrounding basalt cliffs as we set off on our Zodiac cruises and kayak adventures. Visit Palouse Falls where cascading waters plunge into pools below. This evening, while sailing down the Snake River, enjoy some local foods prepared by your Head chef. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 — Clarkston
At Clarkston, we find ourselves at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers, more than 450 miles from the sea. Today, travel by comfortable jet boat up the Snake River into one of North America’s most scenic spots, spectacular Hells Canyon. Or you may opt to follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Clearwater River, visiting several of their actual campsites. Led by our local Historian, we learn about the relationship between the Nez Perce people and Lewis and Clark. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 — Lewiston, Idaho/Disembark
Transfer to Lewiston airport for connecting flights home
This tour hosted by Cindy Anderson and USA River Cruises in partnership with America’s Hub World Travel. Contact us or Cindy at:
800-578-1479
360-546-5151
