We were greeted this day with a beautiful blue sky as we made our way west down the Columbia River. Mt. Hood loomed in the distance, painted pink by the morning sun. After we boarded the motor coaches to travel along the historic Columbia Gorge Highway, we learned about the wealth of maraschino cherries produced in the local area. Up we climbed as the 100-year old road curved its way to the top of Rowena Crest. There we were treated to a view up and down the Columbia Valley.
Descending back to a lower elevation we visited the nearby Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center. The elegant tone and timber building houses several interesting exhibits and our guests also enjoyed a lecture on raptors that inhabit the region.
Some guests walked back to the National Geographic Sea Lion, others biked, a third contingent enjoyed a nature walk led by our naturalist, while yet another group took the motor coach to experience the actual site of a Lewis and Clark campsite, called Fork Rock Camp.
After another sumptuous lunch, all our guests departed for Maryhill Museum and its Stonehenge inspired WWI veterans’ memorial. The full-scale replica honors 14 Klickitat soldiers who gave their lives in the war. The mood was lightened when our guests arrived at Maryhill Museum and enjoyed its eclectic collection of art, including several Rodin sculptures.
The mood was lightened further when we visited the nearby Maryhill Winery. Several delicious varieties of wine were sampled as our host Rich explained the qualities of each wine. Our guests received an extra special treat when the master vintner, Richard Bachelor, answered questions from our knowledgeable guests. Our spirits were lifted yet again when the vintner gave us a special tour inside the barrelhouse and answered more questions.
Back to the National Geographic Sea Lion, a recap of the day’s activities, and still another terrific dinner, in which we celebrated the birthdays of three guests, capped off a wonderful day.
