National Geographic Sea Bird sailed through the confluence of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, beginning its ascent of the Snake River towards Lower Monumental Lock and Dam, where the ship was lifted approximately 100-ft into the Herbert G. West Lake behind the dam. Guests were treated to the scenic Snake River while approaching the Palouse River and Falls for their afternoon outing. After lunch, one group shuttled to shore on Zodiacs and boarded buses for Palouse Falls, where water moved downstream with the tremendous force of spring runoff. The other group was taken up Palouse River on Zodiacs to learn about the remarkable making of the Palouse River Canyon by the Missoula Floods. They observed divers wildlife, including golden and bald eagles, peregrine falcons, coyotes, beavers, muskrats, river otters, porcupines, mule deer, and catfish. The evening concluded with a spirited competition of groups playing Columbia/Snake River Jeopardy!
Photographers: Patrick MacQuarrie, River Historian and Naturalist, and Chelsea Mayer, Certified Photo Instructor
