Columbia River Gorge

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Columbia River Gorge

After several weeks visiting the beautiful mountains and beaches of Oregon, we set out 
to see the Columbia River Gorge
We felt like Lewis and Clark on their Voyage of Discovery



The Lewis and Clark Expedition from May 1804 to September 1806, also known as the Corps of Discovery Expedition was the first American expedition to cross the western portion of the United States.



We visited Fort Clatsop Near Astoria Oregon on the banks of the Columbia River
where they spent the winter of 1805 - 1806



 It was fascinating to see where and how these explorers lived and to read their journal entries
and observations as they traveled across the unknown wilderness

While in the larger town of Astoria we had the Honda serviced and since we didn't have a car
for a couple of hours, we walked down to the old fish packing house on the docks



and took a self guided tour of the place.



 Can you imagine? All day every day... on your feet
Cutting up fish and packing it into cans..

And what did you smell like when you got home??  ewww!!
Even on cloudy days it's beautiful with the river and the many unique bridges





In Astoria we went to Maritime Museum  




We learned of the treacherous conditions created by the shifting sand bars at the mouth of the Columbia that have caused hundreds of ships to sink here.

While at the museum I got to try my hand doing the weather...maybe a new career??


On the Washington side of the river we visited Point Disappointment where Lewis and Clark first camped before finding to a more suitable location across the river and building Fort Clatsop 


It really is beautiful here


Back on the Oregon side of the river we continued to explore eastward along the Columbia


There were spectacular water falls



And every imaginable type of ship can be found on the river









Along the way we came across Native Americans who sell fresh salmon the roadside.


And log trucks are everywhere



In Hood River there must have been at least 100 kite surfers and wind surfers,



…. and this was the middle of the week



We also toured part of the "Fruit Loop" (not Kidding) which is a 35 mile loop through the valley 
to dozens of orchards and vineyards.


As you stop at the different farms where they grow blueberries, peaches, cherries, apples, strawberries, raspberries and many other fruits are that I can't remember.


Lots of tasting (fruit & wine) and you can pick your own at some of the orchards
 or purchase fruit already picked. 


If you get the chance to come to Portland or the Pacific Northwest, we highly recommend making time to see the Columbia River Gorge.






















































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