Clearwater River & Hells Canyon
Whether exploring the Corps of Discovery campsites along the Clearwater River, or zooming up the Snake River via jet boat, today was one of discovery. The M.V. Sea Lion docked early this morning in Clarkston, Washington. Shortly after breakfast, we boarded either motor coach or jet boat, ready to begin our day’s adventures. For those who opted for the Clearwater Connection, we joined local historian Linwood Laughy, and became immersed in the world of Lewis and Clark. Lin combined excerpts from the Corps’ diaries with on-site interpretations. Standing in the exact locations where the very words were penned 200 years ago, one could not help but feel a connection to the Corps of Discovery.
Meanwhile, those who chose to ride the jet boat into Hells Canyon were taken over 60 miles into national historic area’s deep gorge. In addition to the spectacular scenery and dramatic canyon walls, we were lucky enough to observe three different groups of rocky mountain big horn sheep. These nimble animals inhabit the most hard to reach areas of the mountains. One group with several males afforded us especially good looks at territorial behaviors, including head-butting.
Our groups came together in the late afternoon at the Nez Perce Interpretive Center. Through video presentations, portraits displays, and cultural exhibits, we were reminded of this native people’s significant influence upon the region’s history and their continued presence within the community.
Whether exploring the Corps of Discovery campsites along the Clearwater River, or zooming up the Snake River via jet boat, today was one of discovery. The M.V. Sea Lion docked early this morning in Clarkston, Washington. Shortly after breakfast, we boarded either motor coach or jet boat, ready to begin our day’s adventures. For those who opted for the Clearwater Connection, we joined local historian Linwood Laughy, and became immersed in the world of Lewis and Clark. Lin combined excerpts from the Corps’ diaries with on-site interpretations. Standing in the exact locations where the very words were penned 200 years ago, one could not help but feel a connection to the Corps of Discovery.
Meanwhile, those who chose to ride the jet boat into Hells Canyon were taken over 60 miles into national historic area’s deep gorge. In addition to the spectacular scenery and dramatic canyon walls, we were lucky enough to observe three different groups of rocky mountain big horn sheep. These nimble animals inhabit the most hard to reach areas of the mountains. One group with several males afforded us especially good looks at territorial behaviors, including head-butting.
Our groups came together in the late afternoon at the Nez Perce Interpretive Center. Through video presentations, portraits displays, and cultural exhibits, we were reminded of this native people’s significant influence upon the region’s history and their continued presence within the community.
