Astoria, OR
Morning found us out near the Columbia River Bar with the Pacific Ocean in view and unusually clear skies and calm seas. Brown pelicans traveled with ease just feet above the surface of the waves. Lewis and Clark would have been jealous of our good fortune with the weather in the Pacific Northwest. Today’s sunrise was a good predictor of the stunning day we would have exploring the area where, in contrast, the Corps of Discovery spent a soggy winter.
After docking in Astoria, we boarded motor coaches and went to Cape Disappointment. Museum interpretations of the Lewis and Clark route, views of the ocean, and a hike to the lighthouse kept us busy. When we returned to the ship, autumn rays of the sun were beating down upon Astoria with such fervor that we enjoyed lunch served on deck.
This afternoon at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, we learned of the perils of the Columbia River Bar, the expert pilots who guide the ships across it, and the US Coast Guard personnel who use a self-righting boat to rescue those who need it. Leisure time allowed us to explore the town, as well as to climb to the top of the Astor Column to enjoy the view one last time.
As we head to Portland tonight, we find ourselves reflecting back over the week and what we have learned from the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Maybe there is still some exploring to be done even in our own backyards.
Morning found us out near the Columbia River Bar with the Pacific Ocean in view and unusually clear skies and calm seas. Brown pelicans traveled with ease just feet above the surface of the waves. Lewis and Clark would have been jealous of our good fortune with the weather in the Pacific Northwest. Today’s sunrise was a good predictor of the stunning day we would have exploring the area where, in contrast, the Corps of Discovery spent a soggy winter.
After docking in Astoria, we boarded motor coaches and went to Cape Disappointment. Museum interpretations of the Lewis and Clark route, views of the ocean, and a hike to the lighthouse kept us busy. When we returned to the ship, autumn rays of the sun were beating down upon Astoria with such fervor that we enjoyed lunch served on deck.
This afternoon at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, we learned of the perils of the Columbia River Bar, the expert pilots who guide the ships across it, and the US Coast Guard personnel who use a self-righting boat to rescue those who need it. Leisure time allowed us to explore the town, as well as to climb to the top of the Astor Column to enjoy the view one last time.
As we head to Portland tonight, we find ourselves reflecting back over the week and what we have learned from the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Maybe there is still some exploring to be done even in our own backyards.
