This morning, National Geographic Sea Lion awoke to an amber glow and brisk winds sweeping through the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area. Following docking in Hood River, Oregon, our group divided into two for a diverse array of morning activities.
After a scenic coach ride, one group stopped at Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in the state of Oregon. Following a visit to this stunning cataract, we explored the Bonneville Fish Hatchery which hosts a diverse fish production program. Early spring gardens bordered many pools of fish at various ages eagerly awaiting their turn for release in the Columbia River.
Meanwhile, on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, a second group hiked up Beacon Rock, a stately basalt pillar protruding from the shores of the Columbia River. Once atop Beacon Rock, late morning light poured through fine mist to cast a glow over the landscape, giving way to several rainbows.
After lunch, we sailed downriver to enter and navigate the final dam and lock system of our voyage, the Bonneville Lock and Dam.
Photos by Ashley Karitis and Lisa Hornak
