This brisk and sunny morning we boarded jet boats in Clarkston, Washington, for a thrilling ride up the Snake River into Hells Canyon. For over two million years the Snake River has been carving its way down into the continent to form this wildly beautiful and remote canyon. Known for its magnificent views and dynamic geology, Hells Canyon is deeper even than the Grand Canyon. The rugged landscape that will by dry and brown by summer is now gloriously green and sports a variety of colorful wildflowers. We traveled into Hells Canyon, to the Snake River’s confluence with the Salmon River, the legendary River of No Return.
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!