Clarkston, Washington and Lewiston, Idaho
This morning the National Geographic Sea Bird arrived at Clarkston, Washington. Here we had two options for the day: the first to explore the Snake River by jet boat, and the second to follow the steps of Lewis and Clark along the Clearwater River.
The landscape around here is really different from where we started our journey on the mighty Columbia River. We left the clouds and the humidity behind to explore an environment of dry grasses that dance with the wind. Not only is the scenery beautiful, but the fascinating history of the brave explorers of European origin who first charted this untamed land adds an extra sense of adventure.
We visited some of the sites where the Lewis and Clark expedition camped. Our interpreters enriched our experience with stories that made us realize the challenges of the epic expedition, as we stood on the same ground as Lewis and Clark once did. We also had the opportunity to revive our primitive skills during hands-on demonstrations on starting a fire with flint and steel and making rope in the old-fashioned way.
The group that joined the jet boat excursion had a full day as well. They cruised into the depths of Hell’s Canyon Recreation Area. As the boat went up river, the river narrowed and we could spot the wildlife that inhabits this remote region. Among the creatures we saw were Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep on the slopes of the canyon. Circling the skies were bald and golden eagles. Along the shorelines we saw mule deer and great blue herons.
Both groups closed the day at the Nez Perce Historical Park. Here we saw the displays that have been repatriated some ten years ago, with the help of Lindblad Expeditions. Today we had a wonderful day full of unique cultural experiences.
