Columbia & Snake Rivers: Food, Wine, and History 2026

September 26 - October 03, 2026

Length: 8 days

Region(s): U.S. & Canada

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Cruise, River Cruise

SPECIAL 5% GROUP SAVINGS: Save 5% on cabin fare when traveling with the California Alumni Association/Cal Discoveries Travel on this departure (conditions apply).

Follow the Pacific Northwest's storied waterways traveled by early explorers, settlers, and indigenous peoples as we take in spectacular scenery, tour museums and historic sites, and indulge our senses with the region’s culinary splendors and world-class wines.

Operated by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions

Reservation Request

Tour Highlights

Sail in the wake of Lewis and Clark with expert insight from a historian, and learn about the indigenous peoples they encountered from a Nez Perce storyteller.
Witness the region’s geological wonders—from the Columbia River Gorge to Multnomah Falls and Beacon Rock—and explore up close and at water level while hiking, kayaking, or Zodiac cruising.
Transit a series of eight locks that lift the ship 700 feet—10 times the elevation of the Panama Canal.
Enjoy locally sourced, gourmet meals, as well as nightly wine tastings curated by Food & Wine magazine’s Executive Wine Editor, Ray Isle.
Explore places brimming with history and local charm, from the museums and vineyards of Walla Walla to historic Cape Disappointment and the offbeat seaside town of Astoria.
Savor spectacular backdrops, enjoying canapes and cocktails as you transit towering locks by moonlight, taste local wines at a private museum gathering, and more.
Voyage alongside a team of experts with deep knowledge of the Pacific Northwest’s history and geology, as well as a food and wine expert to guide you through the region’s various terroirs.

If you would like to receive a PDF copy of this trip’s brochure, please click on the words “Brochure Request Form” under Additional Resources on this webpage.

* Cal lecturer’s participation cannot be guaranteed and is contingent upon a minimum number of paying travelers.

Activity Level 2

What to expect: These trips often travel by motor coach, ship, or train. Touring days may include full-day motor coach excursions or extended periods of standing and walking during city tours, museum visits, and/or outdoor activities. Travelers should be able to board transportation, walk over sometimes-uneven terrain, and climb a few flights of stairs, occasionally without handrails or assistance. Elevators are not always available. Outings last 2–4 hours most days.

Suitable for: Travelers who are able to comfortably walk two to four miles, or 4,600–6,900 steps, each day.