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North America cruises Columbia River

Best Things to Do in Columbia River

Iconic Attractions & Hidden Gem Travel Experiences

Columbia River

Carving out one of the most scenic areas of the United States, the 1,200-mile-long Columbia River – which flows from British Columbia, Canada, through the U.S. Pacific Northwest – offers both Lewis-and-Clark-style history and abundant year-round recreational opportunities. The best-known section, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in Washington state and Oregon, is a haven for river cruises, white water rafting, kayaking, birding, and winter sports as well. Dozens of waterfalls are another major attraction.

Top Columbia River Experiences

Diverse Experiences on Columbia and Snake River Cruises

Embark on an extraordinary adventure along the Columbia and Snake rivers and experience unique and unforgettable moments against stunning natural landscapes and cultural landmarks.

  • Sailing through the Columbia River Gorge
  • Taking in the gorgeous scenery of the Pacific Northwest
  • Visiting Fort Clatsop, where Lewis & Clark stayed on their journey
  • Learning about the Lewis & Clark expedition and following in their footsteps
  • Rafting in Hells Canyon
  • Exploring charming river towns along the Columbia and Snake rivers
  • Tasting wines in the Columbia River Valley
  • Observing diverse wildlife from the comfort of your cruise ship
  • Admiring the engineering marvels of the Bonneville Dam
  • Strolling through historic downtowns with fascinating architecture
  • Sampling local cuisine at riverside cafes and restaurants
  • Participating in guided nature hiking and birding excursions
  • Immersing yourself in Native American culture at cultural centers
  • Enjoying onboard entertainment and lectures about the region's history and ecology

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Things to do in Columbia River - Expert’s guide

The Columbia River offers many unique and wonderful things to do while on your cruise. Everything from hiking and whitewater rafting to wine tasting at boutique and rustic Washington and Oregon wineries.

If you’re into wildlife viewing, you’re in the right spot! Keep your eyes peeled for river otters, big horned sheep, and elegant white herons while on your journey.

And of course for the American history buffs, the Columbia River is one of the best river cruises in the United States! You’ll be following in the footsteps of Lewis & Clark, learning more about their incredible expedition along the way.

Without further adieu, here are some top things to do along the Columbia River!


1. Crown Point

Crown Point Columbia River Cruise

If you are the kind of traveler who enjoys vista points and viewing areas to take in unbelievable scenery, then you can’t miss Crown Point. A popular pull off for cars taking in the valley along Historic Columbia River Highway, Crown Point features a comfortable viewing area over the Columbia River Gorge. Crown Point is also quite a popular photo opportunity from the river itself.

2. Elowah Falls

There are several waterfalls available along the Columbia River, accessible by hikes. Elowah Falls is the reward after a fairly easy hike - suitable to those of average fitness, kids, and older travelers. The hike is mostly flat with some uphill parts.

3. Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls Oregon

With a distinctly fairytale vibe, recognizable for Benson Bridge which spans Multnomah Falls lower base, is the view most travelers will be familiar with. The falls are easy to see up close, a short walk - accessible to most physical levels - is all it takes to get up close enough to feel the spray and see a full view of the upper and lower falls.

Multnomah Falls are also spectacular year round, unlike some other waterfalls in the area which dry up in the summertime.

4. Portland, Oregon

City overlook of Portland Oregon

The most common start or end port for Columbia River Cruises, Portland is one of the most popular cities to visit in Oregon. While it’s very often raining, the city is incredibly friendly and open, with tons to see and do. Beer lovers especially will enjoy the many bars featuring local micro-breweries. Portland is a great place for art lovers as well, with several offbeat and unique galleries and shops.

5. Hells Canyon

Hells Canyon pacific northwest united states

The deepest river gorge in North America, seeing Hells Canyon is certainly something to boast about. Adventure seekers can undergo jet-boating, which is one of the most popular activities in the area. Those who are less interested in speeding across the waters on a jet-boat can enjoy nature hikes and walks in the Hells Canyon Recreational Area.

6. Fort Clatsop, Oregon

The legends and stories of Lewis & Clark are sprinkled throughout the Columbia River region, but are particularly strong in Fort Clatsop. This is the encampment where the famous duo stayed during the winter of 1805-1806. Part of the Lewis & Clark National Historical Park, this is where the history buffs on board your Columbia River cruise will be in their element.

7. Cape Disappointment, Washington

Experience the amazing, rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest from this recreational state park area in Washington. Named in 1788 for the ill-fated expedition by John Meares, whose maiden voyage to find the Columbia River failed after he ran into a dangerous storm while at sea and was forced to turn around.  

Cape Disappointment is home to the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center where visitors can wander through wonderful exhibits detailing the maritime and exploration history of the area.

8. Mount St. Helens, Washington

Mount st helens Washington

An active stratovolcano, Mount St. Helens is located in Washington, about 50 miles north of Portland. It can be seen from the Columbia River on a clear day. Many Columbia River Cruises include a Mount St. Helen’s port of call where you can take a guided walk to a viewing area, learning about the volcano’s geography and natural history.

9. Columbia Gorge Discovery Center

One of the biggest draws for travelers on a Columbia River Cruise, other than the historic journey of Lewis & Clark, is the Columbia River Gorge. For those who love natural history and geology, this is the stop for you.

Well designed exhibits cover how the many centuries and ages have shaped the land, from the Ice Age to present day. And there are several walks and hikes that illuminate how the Gorge came to be, and the nature and wildlife it fosters.

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Columbia River Tours Reviews & Ratings

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Corvette Guy
·
2022-09-26
Written on
Columbia and Snake Rivers cruise by American Cruiselines
Beautiful Way To See America
This is the second time we cruised the Columbia/Snake Rivers with American Cruise Lines. We took this trip on ACL Song in Oct. 2021. That time the fall leaves were absolutely unbelievable. Growing up in Calif we never really experienced them to that degree. We couldn't believe the amount of colors. We decided to take this cruise again in the Summer and it was equally as beautiful. We tried a smaller ship this time. America West (formerly the Queen of the West). We were so surprised to see how beautiful she was on the inside. Apparently she had a complete interior renovation during the winter and was now very modern and updated. She looked as new as the ACL Song we had taken in the Fall. West is a paddlewheel style ship and that gave a great charm to our experience this time. We enjoyed the excursions daily, there are many to choose from but don't miss the Bonneville Dam and fish ladder tour. There are 7 or 8 locks that you pass through on the Columbia it's always interesting to watch the Capt. navigate into these small spaces and watch the ship rise or fall. That never gets old. The locks on the Columbia are an amazing testament to mans engineering skills. The food was excellent. The local approach to regional cuisine is one of the things that brought us back to ACL and another Columbia River cruise. The cabins are slightly smaller on West than the newer River Boats that ACL has but there was still plenty of room with a very comfortable bed and what seem to be pretty luxurious linens according to my wife. The water pressure in the shower was great. West has a step up into the bathroom but there are several grab rails mounted and excellent lighting in the rooms. We had a nice balcony cabin that we used a lot since this was a summer cruise.

I think we're hooked on river cruising with ACL now compared to the large cruise lines we used to frequent. I'm ready to head to the Mississippi but the wife wants to try some of the East Coast cruises that ACL has. I think she's booked another one for November in Florida on the America Star. Highly recommend American Cruise Lines if you want to see the good old USA and stay close to home. It's a great line with an all American crew. The entire staff was helpful and friendly. The cruise director Trent was a hoot. We didn't have to wear masks this time like we did last year but it's an optional thing depending on your comfort level. Nobody passes judgement with/without a mask. It is nice to have less than 100 people onboard, and to have the same busses daily. That alone as well as sailing within the US gives us a feeling of comfort and safety. We're hoping to do many more cruises with American Cruise Lines. Be sure to join their Eagle Society. American Cruise Lines seem to be building more ships so I'm sure the wife will want to try them all out.
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James Bond
·
2022-09-24
Written on
Columbia and Snake Rivers cruise by American Cruiselines
Authentic Paddlewheel Cruising
We loved the Columbia/Snake river itinerary. It was beautiful on this 4th of July cruise with this authentic America West Paddlewheel ship all decked out in her flags, we looked like a Norman Rockwell painting. America West was freshly renovated in 2022 with all new decor and furnishings. She's an authentic paddlewheel girl on the outside with bright and beautiful modern new decor on the inside. West is one of the last little paddlewheel boats you can experience. ACL had a wonderful guest speaker that was knowledgable of the Lewis & Clark expedition and the area and great inclusive excursions. Our meal were outstanding with a chef from New Orleans, she nailed it, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Looking forward to trying some of American Cruise Lines other destinations.
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TH
·
2022-08-07
Written on
Columbia and Snake Rivers cruise by American Cruiselines
Beautiful Columbia River
This was our second cruise on the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington with ACL. The views and locks are spectacular and the pace is very relaxing. Each town visited has an interesting history and quaint personality.

American Cruise Lines provides a fantastically safe environment for aging guests or for those travelling alone. The small ships ensure that you'll be able to meet and make friends with other guests easily. Excursions usually require a small amount of walking and transport is comfortable in an air-conditioned bus. The weather was a little warm, but the rooms have very satisfactory air-conditioning.

Meals are beautifully presented in the dining room at tables from 4 - 8 guests. For dinner, there are usually two options for appetizers, and three options for the main meal, with a couple of options for desserts.

Staff are on hand to answer any and all questions. The guest speaker, on-board music entertainment and activities are top-quality.
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Lynn
·
2022-07-13
Written on
Columbia and Snake Rivers cruise by American Cruiselines
Great Cruise on the Columbia and Snake Rivers
From the first day, there was so much to do. We loved our port specialist, David and his lectures about where we were visiting and the information we learned about the Lewis and Clark experience. He was very prepared, knowledgeable and entertaining. The cruise director, Trent was amazing. He was always trying to keep us informed. He kept us busy whether it was with games, trivia, or bingo etc.- if you weren’t going on a tour excursion there was always something on the ship to participate in. There were always a wonderful variety of free excursions that were available at every port.
This happened to be an Art Immersion Cruise so we had an artist, Nancy onboard who gave watercolor classes. I really enjoyed them. Everyday we could do a project that related to the port we were visiting.
The cabin was clean and bigger than any other ship I have been on. There was delicious food at every meal and fresh hot cookies every morning and afternoon. The staff worked extremely hard to make everyone happy. I would highly recommend this cruise for people wishing to see the Columbia and Snake Rivers. This cruise line is not for young families...
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Susan
·
2017-07-28
Written on
The Willamette valley ride was a perfect blend of beautiful scenery, great road maps and excellent Pinot Noir
My friend and I signed up for the self guided tour in Oregon. The Willamette valley ride was a perfect blend of beautiful scenery, great road maps and excellent Pinot Noir. LifeCycle Adventures made it easy and fun to tour this area in a bike. We especially appreciated Adam's expert assistance and guidance. One if my favorite places we stayed was the Twisted Willow Bed and Breakfast June was a wonderful hist and chef!!
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Marc
·
2017-07-27
Written on
Lifecycle did a great job arranging our trip
Lifecycle did a great job arranging our trip. Adam was particularly delightful in making it a wonderful experience. I will mention that the drivers in Oregon were particularly polite and respectful. We have ridden in many states and no other has been as consistently full of good drivers for cyclists.
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