Columbia & Snake
Pacific Northwest, USA
The Columbia and Snake Rivers trace the route Lewis and Clark followed to the Pacific more than two centuries ago, running from the wheat country of eastern Washington through the dramatic basalt cliffs of the Columbia River Gorge to Portland and the Oregon coast. A system of locks lifts and lowers ships through the rivers' many dams, opening up a stretch of canyon and waterfall scenery that's largely inaccessible by road.
Cruises here run aboard small, American-crewed riverboats — typically 150 passengers or fewer — sailing between Clarkston, near Hells Canyon, and Astoria at the river's mouth. It's a quieter, more scenic alternative to Europe's river cruises for travelers who'd rather stay closer to home, pairing Lewis & Clark history and Native American heritage sites with wine tasting in the Columbia Valley and easy access to Mount St. Helens. Sailings run primarily in spring and fall, when wildflowers and foliage add color to the gorge.
Ports of Call
Astoria, Oregon
On the Columbia River near the Pacific Ocean, Astoria is along the Lewis & Clark Trail. The town is also the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, and has recently been revitalized. Victorian homes, maritime and fishing history, and relics from The Goonies are what Astoria is most known for.
Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon sits between the Columbia and Willamette Rivers and is famous for the saying "Keep Portland Weird." It has a major arts culture as well as a plethora of both incredible foodie locations and unique events. The Portland Art Museum and the International Rose Test Garden are highly visited attractions, along with Powell's Bookstore, which fills an entire city block.
Mount St. Helens, Washington
Mount St. Helens is an active volcano 50 miles northeast of Portland. Over 230 square miles of forest was burned during its eruption in 1980, completely changing the landscape. Visit the pumice plain and lava dome while learning about the volcano's history.
Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful river canyon that cuts through the Cascade Mountain Range. Federally protected as a National Scenic Area, the gorge meanders by jutting cliff faces and magnificent waterfalls. Perhaps the most scenic overlook area is at the Vista House, while the legendary Multnomah Falls is the most photogenic.
The Dalles, Oregon
Positioned between Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, The Dalles sits within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Visit Rock Fort Camp, where Lewis & Clark camped on their journey into the Louisiana Purchase territory in the early 1800's.
Pendleton, Oregon and Richland, WA
In Pendleton, expect to discover stunning countryscapes, wool trade history, and Native American tribes. Explore artifacts and interactive exhibits at the Reach Museum in Richland, which shares insight into the region's past.
Clarkston, Oregon and Hells Canyon
One of the Northwest's most inland seaports, Clarkston sits along the Snake River. In this area is Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America, known for flourishing wildlife populations and an untouched natural environment.
