Rowena Crest is set on one of the many thick basalt flows that filled the Columbia River Basalt thousands of years ago. Towering above the river below, it offers a commanding view of the surrounding watershed. The historic Columbia River Highway winds through forested groves of oaks, maples, and ponderosa pines on its way to the view point where the shadow of Mount Hood can be seen to the east. The same peak is also the setting for lunch as guests enjoy an organic farm to table meal at the historic Crag Rag Hut, the haunt of one of Oregon’s most established Ski Patrol organizations.
4/24/2025
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Hood River
Unseasonably warm and dry weather continued to grace us as we proceeded with our expedition down the Columbia River. The morning was crisp as we disembarked in Hood River, Oregon, but quickly warmed up as we boarded our coaches. Our explorations began at Multnomah Falls, the number one tourist attraction in the state of Oregon. After we experienced this astounding cascade, some of our guests proceeded to Beacon Rock for a scenic climb up this 800-foot tall, aged lava plug. Others went to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery where we visited a local icon, Herman the sturgeon. Then both groups of explorers met at the Columbia Gorge Interpretative Center for Syncline wines and an overflowing helping of intriguing local history. As the superb weather continued, we voyaged back to National Geographic Sea Bird for a lovely afternoon of classic cruising down the Columbia River. Guests enjoyed the sun on deck or an engaging presentation on how climate change is affecting migratory birds. Complimentary water-level views of Multnomah Falls followed, and our last transit through a lock of this trip – a lovely passage through the Bonneville Lock and Dam. Photos by Doug Crispin and Alex Rubenstein
