During the night we navigated from the Snake River and turned south onto the Columbia River. This morning we woke in front of McNary Lock and Dam. McNary is the fifth lock of our trip, after having traversed four along the Snake River. It is also our first lock on the Columbia River as we continue our navigation westward. We are still in the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains and the defining desert-steppe vegetation. This afternoon we had a chance for a short stroll at Crow Butte County Park to get a closer look at the classic vegetation, sagebrush and other western plant species. We closed our day with a sampling of the local wines from Washington and Oregon vineyards. A flavorful way to end another day navigating the great river of the west.
10/23/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Walla Walla
We awoke anchored at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers, National Geographic Sea Lion perfectly framed by the Ed Hendler and Pioneer Memorial Bridges. Departing shortly after breakfast, everyone headed to shore for a full day of adventure, education, and indulgent wine tasting. Once ashore, some of us headed to Seven Hills Vineyard for an exclusive tour while others explored the rich cultural history of Fort Walla Walla. We reconvened at the stunning Seven Hills Tasting Room in downtown Walla Walla for a spectacular lunch and our first tasting of the day. After lunch we split up again, with options for excursions ranging from wine tasting to ice cream sampling, shopping, and a visit to the Whitman Mission National Historic Site. Our Zodiac rides back to the ship were perfectly timed with the sunset, making for a beautiful end to a busy day exploring the Pasco and Walla Walla area. After yet another exceptional wine and dinner pairing by Wine Specialist Kristine, a sporty game of Pacific Northwest Trivia ensued!