Road Scholar : Home
On the Road: The Northwest’s Columbia River Gorge, Mount Rainier and San Juan Islands

Program Number: 16179RJ
Start and End Dates:
6/23/2013 - 6/30/2013; 7/14/2013 - 7/21/2013; 8/11/2013 - 8/18/2013; 9/1/2013 - 9/8/2013;
Duration: 7 nights
Location: Portland, Oregon
Price starting at: $1,749.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: On the Road; National Parks
Meals: 19; 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Whales, wildflower-filled meadows, towering mountains, and charming island villages give you a taste of the variety and wonder of the Pacific Northwest. See glass blowing in action and walk a bridge of Chihuly glass. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of Pike Place Market. At Mount St. Helen’s discover a land still recovering from the volcano’s fury.




Highlights

• Journey through the spectacular Columbia Gorge aboard a sternwheeler.
• Explore the Paradise flower fields at Mount Rainier spending a night at a National Park lodge.
• Traverse the waters of Puget Sound searching for whales, seals and otters.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles on uneven terrain, trails, streets. Elevations up to 6,000 feet. Must carry luggage on and off ferry ramp up to a block in length.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Portland, Ore., 1 night; coach to Hood River, 1 night; coach to Mount Rainier National Park, 1 night; coach to Seattle, Wash., 1 night; ferry to Friday Harbor, 2 nights; coach to Portland, Ore., 1 night; departure.



Coordinated by Road Scholar.




Friday Harbor (San Juan Island)

Friday Harbor is a picturesque, walkable, fishing port town nestled on the edge of the harbor. The island is home to a National Historic Park, Lime Kiln State Park (for whale-watching), plus serene harbors, farmland and outdoor opportunities.



Portland (Oregon)

Portlanders live a life rich in the arts, surrounded by natural beauty and conveniently situated near the Pacific Coast and Columbia River Gorge. The City of Roses is a walker's paradise filled with parks, fountains and unique neighborhoods.



Mt. Rainier National Park

 The centerpiece of one of our nation’s oldest national parks, Mount Rainer rises abruptly from the surrounding land with elevations ranging from 1,600 feet to more than 14,000 feet. The park includes valleys, waterfalls, sub-alpine wildflower meadows, old-growth forest and more than 26 glaciers.



Seattle

Seattle is a visual gem, set amid saltwater, lakes and mountains. International influences abound in this congenial city. Unique neighborhoods, world-class cultural institutions, parks and the landmark Space Needle are just the beginning.
Accommodations
Comfortable hotels and historic lodges with varying amenities, some without elevators.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Joseph Couture
Joseph Couture is an expert on the geology and history of the Pacific Northwest. He studied geology at Portland State University and criminology at Southern Oregon University, and combined the degrees for his interest in forensic geology (geo-criminology). He is an accomplished lecturer on topics ranging from the Hawaiian Volcanoes to the Granite Plutons of Acadia National Park in Maine.
 
Michael Vouri
Michael Vouri is chief park interpreter and historian for San Juan Island National Park. He is a passionate historian with an unmatched knowledge of regional history and exploration. He is the author of "The Pig War," and co-author of "Images of America – Friday Harbor." Michael is well known regionally for “An Evening with George Pickett,” a critically acclaimed stage play based on a local historical figure. Mike is a long-time and very popular Road Scholar instructor.
 
Kevin Loftus
Kevin Loftus is the executive director of the San Juan Historical Museum. He grew up in Chicago before attending college at Northern Arizona University. A love of cycling led Kevin to begin visiting the San Juan Islands, and after five years and many adventures, the beauty of the islands inspired him to move there. In 2008, Kevin found his dream job as director of the museum. He says he feels very fortunate to be able to share the unique history of the San Juan Islands with others.
 
Cindy Hansen
Cindy Hansen is education curator for The Whale Museum. Born in Gary, Ind., she earned a degree in zoology with a focus on marine mammals at the University of Washington in Seattle. While working as a naturalist onboard a whale-watching fleet, she fell in love with the San Juan Islands and the Orcas who live in the surrounding waters. Cindy has also worked with Orca Network for several years as a naturalist onboard the Washington State Ferries.
 
Emily Reed
Emily Reed is a longtime islander. She was an adviser to students at U.C. Berkeley in the 1960s before moving to San Juan Island in 1972, and a beloved counselor for 18 years at Friday Harbor High School. From 1991-2011 she wrote and published "Emily's Guide & Maps to the San Juan Islands," and for five years wrote a monthly column on art in The Islands Weekly newspaper. She is a member of the new San Juan County Arts Council and finds delight and challenge in her new career as an editor for authors far and near. Emily is a veteran Road Scholar group leader for Skagit Valley College.
 
Michael Balise
Michael Balise was born and raised north of Seattle. As a faculty member at Skagit Valley College, Michael teaches math, oceanography, geology, and more. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Washington in geophysics by studying glaciers in exotic locales. Michael also holds a B.S. in atmospheric sciences and a B.F. in forest resources. He is an experienced sailor and kayak guide. Michael has lived on San Juan Island for the past 20 years, and is happily married to his wife Magda. Michael is the proud father of two grown sons; one currently attends college and the other son resides in China.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Clarion Hotel- Portland International Airport
  Portland, OR 1 night
   Best Western Plus Hood River Inn
  Hood River, OR 1 night
   Paradise Inn
  Mount Rainier National Park, WA 1 night
   Red Lion Hotel on Fifth Avenue
  Seattle, WA 1 night
   Best Western Friday Harbor Suites
  Friday Harbor, WA 2 nights
   Clarion Hotel- Portland International Airport
  Portland, OR 1 night
 Clarion Hotel- Portland International Airport
Type: Hotel
  Description: Hotel is perched along Lake Mayes near the Columbia River, offering bird-watching pleasures as well as ready access to downtown Portland, 10 miles away. Walking path nearby.
  Contact info: 11518 NE Glenn Widing Drive
Portland, OR 97220 USA
phone: 503-252-2222
web: www.clarionhotel.com/hotel-portland-oregon-OR166
  Room amenities: Air conditioning, cable/satellite, TV, refrigerator, coffee/tea maker, hair dryer, microwave, high speed Internet access, clock radio and iron/ironing board.
  Facility amenities: Indoor heated pool, hot tub, exercise room, business center, on-site guest laundry, meeting rooms and complimentary airport shuttle. Hotel is handicap accessible.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: Call hotel directly The hotel offers a special rate for participants, based upon availability. Make reservations by calling 503-252-2222 for early arrivals or stay-overs. Be sure to mention you are with the Road Scholar group.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM
  Additional nights after: Call hotel directly The hotel offers a special rate for participants, based upon availability. Make reservations by calling 503-252-2222 for early arrivals or stay-overs. Be sure to mention you are with the Road Scholar group.
  Check out time: 12:00 PM

 Best Western Plus Hood River Inn
Type: Hotel
  Contact info: 1108 E. Marina Way
Hood River, OR 97031 USA
phone: 541-386-2200
web: www.bestwesternoregon.com/hotels/best-western-hood-river-inn
  Room amenities: Refrigerator, microwave, coffeemaker, cable TV, iron/ironing board, and hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Fitness room, outdoor heated pool and spa, indoor spa, dry rock sauna, and riverside walk.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Paradise Inn
Type: Lodge
  Description: Everything about Paradise Inn is unique! This incredible mountainside lodge has recently been renovated, but it maintains it's majestic simplicity in the style of many of the West's iconic park lodges.
  Contact info: Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park, WA 98304 USA
phone: 360-569-2275
web: www.mtrainierguestservices.com/accommodations/paradise-inn
  Facility amenities: This facility does not have elevtors. Some lobby level rooms are available. Porterage has been included in the program price so there will be assistance bringing bags to rooms.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Red Lion Hotel on Fifth Avenue
Type: Hotel
  Description: The Red Lion Hotel is walking distance to Seattle’s exciting shopping, theaters, museums, cultural landmarks, and attractions, including the Seattle Waterfront, Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Seattle Center, Seattle Aquarium, Seattle Art Museum, Experience Music Project, Washington State Convention & Trade Center, Pioneer Square, Benaroya Hall, Pacific Science Center, Key Arena, 5th Avenue Theatre and the classic Paramount Theatre.
  Contact info: 1415 Fifth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101 USA
phone: 206-971-8000
web: www.seattleredlionfifthavenue.com
  Room amenities: This hotel includes 297 smoke-free guest rooms, pillowtop king and queen beds, free high-speed wireless Internet access, large work desks, flat screen TV, alarm clocks, coffee/tea maker, iron/ironing board, hair dryer and full-length mirror.
  Facility amenities: Hotel includes 24-hour business center (additional services such as fax and Internet service are available for a reasonable fee), cardiovascular and training equipment, workout, yoga and Pilates mats, wall-to-ceiling mirrors, a wall-mounted flat-screen TV, water station and towels.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Best Western Friday Harbor Suites
Type: Hotel
  Description: The newly–remodeled Friday Harbor Suites is within walking distance of Friday Harbor's art galleries and shops.
  Contact info: 680 Spring Street
Friday Harbor, WA 98250 USA
phone: 360-378-3031
web: www.fridayharborsuites.com
  Room amenities: The spacious and stylish one bedroom suites are beautifully furnished with your comfort in mind. All rooms are large comfortable one bedroom suites and feature an identical bedding configuration as follows: a separate bedroom with one Queen size bed; and a Queen-size sleeper sofa (with 7” mattress) in the living room. Other room amenities include a large living room with fireplace; kitchen (equipped with full size refrigerator, china and silverware, and microwave); private balcony/deck; and private bath with hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Fitness room, Jacuzzi and business center with computers.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Hotel check in begins at 3:00 PM, program registration begins at 4:00 PM. You will be staying at Clarion Hotel- Portland International Airport that night.
  End of Program:
After breakfast. Hotel check out by 12:00 PM. You will be staying at Clarion Hotel- Portland International Airport the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. America the Beautiful- National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass / Senior Pass (or Golden Age Passport as it was formerly known) if you have one.
  Parking availability:
Hotel offers a "park and fly" option for those wishing to leave their car at the hotel. Advance reservations are required. Contact the hotel for current rate. The other option is to park in the economy lot at the airport for $10 a day.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Portland, OR
  Nearest highway: I-84 and I-5
  Nearest airport:  Portland International Airport (PDX)
  From End of Program
  Location: Portland, OR
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Travel Details
 

Portland- Clarion Hotel

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Hotel Shuttle
Clarion Hotel
phone: 503-252-2222

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Free
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

10 Minutes 
 

Distance:

 

3 Miles
   

The Clarion Hotel offers a complimentary airport shuttle. While the shuttle runs on a schedule, the hotel will need to know you are at the airport. After you have picked up your baggage, call the hotel to arrange for your shuttle (503) 252-2222. Return arrangements can be made with the front desk.
 

Portland- Clarion Hotel

 

From Train Station

 
 

Service:

 

Public Transportation
Tri-Met MAX light rail
phone: 503-238-7433

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$2.50 adult ticket, $1.00 honored citizens (65+)
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

48 minutes (including 3 minutes walking and 11 minutes waiting) 
   

The closest light rail stop to the bus and train station is Union Station/NW 6th & Hoyt St. Instructions from the Union Station / NW 6th & Hoyt St MAX Station to Portland International Airport: 1) Purchase one ticket for each person in your traveling party 2) Board MAX Green Line to Clackamas Town Center 3) Exit MAX at Rose Quarter MAX Station 4) Board MAX Red Line to Airport 3) Exit MAX at Portland International Airport 4) Contact Clarion Hotel for complimentary hotel shuttle
 

Portland- Clarion Hotel

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Hotel Shuttle
Clarion Hotel
phone: 503-252-2222

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Free
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

Minutes from the airport 
   

The Clarion Hotel offers a complimentary airport shuttle. While the shuttle runs on a schedule, the hotel will need to know that you are heading to the airport. Make arrangements at the front desk.
 

Portland- Clarion Hotel

 

From Train Station

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$35 - $40
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

Approximately 20 minutes. Could vary due to traffic. 
   

A taxi would cost approximately $35 - $40 from either the bus or train station to the hotel. Radio Cab: 503-227-1212, Broadway Cab: 503-227-1234 or Green Cab: 503-234-1414.

 
Driving Directions
  Clarion Hotel (Portland, OR) I-205 North Take I-205 North towards Portland. Take the Airport Way East exit #24B. Merge onto NE Airport Way. Turn left at the first light onto NE Glenn Widing Dr. The hotel is on the right.
  Clarion Hotel (Portland, OR) I-205 South Take I-205 South towards Salem. Take the NE Airport Way exit #24. Turn left onto NE Airport Way. Turn left onto NE Glenn Widing Dr. The hotel is on the right.
Elevation Note: 6,000 feet is the highest elevation we will experience. The highest sleeping elevation is 5,400 ft.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Welcome to the Pacific Northwest!
(Sunday, August 11)
   
 Arrive To: Hotel check in begins at 3:00 PM. Program registration is from 4:00 to 5:00 PM.
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.
 Evening: Following dinner we will gather to go over the schedule for the next few days. Then we will take some time to get to know each either.
   
Accommodations: Clarion Hotel- Portland International Airport
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Explore the Columbia River Gorge and Multnomah Falls. Ride a Sternwheeler on the Columbia.
(Monday, August 12)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast buffet at the hotel
 Morning: Leave Portland behind as you travel by motor coach up the Columbia River Gorge. Get a bird's eye view of the spectacular area from the historic Vista House and then take a short walk to the base of Oregon's highest waterfall, the amazing Multnomah Falls. A Forest Service guide will join us as we head up through the Columbia Gorge. If time permits, visit a salmon hatchery to learn how the Northwest's iconic fish runs are supplemented.
 Lunch: Picnic on the banks of the mighty Columbia River at Cascade Locks.
 Afternoon: Embark on a river cruise aboard a sternwheeler boat on the Columbia River with our Forest Service guide who will educate you on the amazing geology and natural history of the area.
 Dinner: Share dinner with your friends at your hotel on the banks of the Columbia River in lovely Hood River, Oregon.
 Evening: Relax and perhaps take a stroll along the river as you enjoy a quiet evening in the gorge.
   
Accommodations: Best Western Plus Hood River Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Climb from the Columbia to the flank of Mt. Rainier. Visit the Yakama Nation's Cultural Heritage Center.
(Tuesday, August 13)
   
 Breakfast: Buffet breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: As the evergreen forests of the Columbia River Gorge give way to arid lands in the rainshadow of the Cascades, you will travel by motor coach to the Yakima Valley and visit the museum of the Yakama Nation. The Yakama Nation Museum opened in 1980 and is one of the oldest Native American Museums in the United States. The 12,0000 square foot exhibition hall is the result of years of hope, thought, and effort on the part of the Yakama people.
 Lunch: Enjoy a lunch at the iconic Winter Lodge at the Yakama Nation's Cultural Heritage Center.
 Afternoon: Ride along as your motor coach climbs the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains. Learn how the changes in altitude affect the climate as you travel to Paradise Inn at the timberline of Mt. Rainier, the highest mountain in the Northwest.
 Dinner: Dine in the grand hall of the newly-restored historic Paradise Inn.
 Evening: Learn about Mt. Rainier National Park, Paradise Inn, and the Cascades during a lecture led by a local expert (due to scheduling, this may not be available on all dates).
   
Accommodations: Paradise Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Mount Rainier to the sprawling Puget Sound cityscape.
(Wednesday, August 14)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at Paradise Inn
 Morning: Descend through Mount Rainier National Park to the mountain town of Elbe. From there you'll travel to Tacoma on Puget Sound; Washington's inland sea.
 Lunch: Lunch in Tacoma at the Museum of Glass
 Afternoon: Take a guided walk to the Chihuly Bridge of Glass to see his amazing glass sculptures. When Chihuly worked with an architect to build the bridge, he wanted to create a gateway to Tacoma that would be for the people. It is a 500-foot-long pedestrian bridge linking downtown Tacoma, Washington, to the city's waterfront. It is an amazing display of color and form. Following our walk, spend some time watching live glassmaking in the Hot Shop at the museum. Travel by motor coach to Seattle, where an evening of free time will afford you the opportunity to explore the Emerald City and its fine restaurants. Prior to dinner there will be time to head to the Pike Place Market which is a few blocks from the hotel. It has been operating in Seattle since 1907 and is internationally recognized as America's premier farmers' market and is home to nearly 200 year-round commercial businesses; 190 craftspeople and 120 farmers who rent table space by the day; 240 street performers and musicians; and 300 apartment units, most of which house low-income elderly people. This is an optional excursion led by your group leader.
 Dinner: Discover for yourself the wonders of Seattle. Dinner is on your own, so enjoy some free time in one of the best cities in the world.
   
Accommodations: Red Lion Hotel on Fifth Avenue
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: The wonders of Puget Sound and the serenity of island life.
(Thursday, August 15)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel or aboard the Clipper ferry.
 Morning: Hop aboard the Clipper for a fast ferry ride to the San Juan Islands. Keep an eye out for marine life as you cruise the waters of Puget Sound. Following a brief stop in Friday Harbor, head back out into the Sound to observe the abundance of active sea life. The islands are home to sea lions, Dall's porpoises, and otters. You might even spot a bald eagle or two! Almost 90 bald eagles make their nests on Washington's San Juan Island. If we are lucky we'll have the chance to see orca whales, also known as "killer whales," play and interact in their natural habitat. The San Juan Islands are home to three families, or pods, that migrate to the island waters for the summer months. The island waters also host many other species of whales. Though killer whales are the most populous, gray whales and minke whales have also been spotted.
 Lunch: Onboard our whale watching vessel.
 Afternoon: Following our trip at sea we will arrive back in Friday Habor to visit the world famous Whale Museum, the first museum in the country dedicated to the interpretation on whales living in the wild. Check into your room at the hotel and prepare for dinner.
 Dinner: Conference Dining Room
 Evening: Presentation: "Views from the Islands" offers an insider's look at contemporary island life, issues, and local culture.
   
Accommodations: Best Western Friday Harbor Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Local artist demo, Visit San Juan Island National Historic Park, Roche Harbor.
(Friday, August 16)
   
 Breakfast: Conference Dining Room
 Morning: Presentation: "Creative Spirit of the San Juan Islands” sheds light on what lures artists to this unique community. Then enjoy a special demonstration from an Island artist. Take a field trip to San Juan Island National Historic Park – American Camp - with historical, cultural and scenic interest. Then visit Lime Kiln Lighthouse, one of the best places in the world to view whales from land and home to an Orca research outpost and lighthouse.
 Lunch: Picnic lunch on San Juan Island's "West side" weather permitting.
 Afternoon: After lunch, we’ll continue on to San Juan Island National Historic Park – English Camp – to see the other piece of San Juan Island’s rich history. End your excursion at Roche Harbor, where you may stroll over to the Roche Harbor Resort and Marina or go on a self-guided exploration of the Westcott Bay Sculpture Park.
 Dinner: Conference Dining Room
 Evening: Presentation: "Friday Harbor Port on the Inland Sea" is a rousing lecture on regional exploration and island history by a National Park Historian.
   
Accommodations: Best Western Friday Harbor Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: From the waters of Puget Sound to the crater of Mount St. Helens.
(Saturday, August 17)
   
 Breakfast: Early breakfast at 6:30 AM in the conference dining room.
 Morning: You will ride aboard one of Washington State's famous ferries as you travel from Friday Harbor through the islands to Anacortes. Once in Anacortes, you will board your motor coach for the ride south through Everett, Seattle, and Tacoma.
 Lunch: Lunch at a brewery in Tacoma.
 Afternoon: From Tacoma you'll travel to Mount St. Helens, site of the largest volcanic eruption in recent U.S. history. A local expert will join you as he covers the geology of the mountain and discusses the cataclysmic blast as you look into the still-steaming crater of the volcano and marvel at the barren land that was once home to a towering ancient forest.
 Dinner: Dinner in Portland at the hotel.
 Evening: Fun and discussion with new friends as we round out the program in this final evening's wrap-up.
   
Accommodations: Clarion Hotel- Portland International Airport
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Independent Departures
(Sunday, August 18)
   
 Breakfast: Buffet breakfast at the hotel, followed by independent departures. Thanks for joining us in the beautiful Pacific Northwest!
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Portland, OR Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
The Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden was originally developed as a test garden. The oldest rhododendron in the current garden was planted prior to 1917. There are more than 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, and companion plants in the garden. For additional information, visit www.portlandonline.com/parks
  International Rose Test Garden
With 8,555 rose bushes representing 722 varieties of roses, this garden is definitely worth a visit. Call 503-823-3635 or visit the website for additional information. For additional information, visit rosegardenstore.com/thegardens.cfm
  Lan Su Chinese Garden
Discover an ever-changing landscape of pavilions, stone, water, plants and literature. Call 503-228-8131 or visit the website for additional information. For additional information, visit www.portlandchinesegarden.org
  Oregon Historical Society
Experience the Oregon story, from its earliest inhabitants to the present day, with fascinating displays of rare Oregon treasures. Call 503-222-1741 or visit the website for more information. For additional information, visit www.ohs.org
  Pittock Mansion
The Pittock Mansion was home to Portland pioneers Henry and Georgiana Pittock from 1914 to 1919. During the late 1800s and the early 1900s, their lives and work paralleled the growth of Portland from a small Northwest town site to a thriving city with a quarter million population. With its eclectic architectural design and richly decorated interior, including family artifacts, the Pittock Mansion stands today as a living memorial of this family’s contributions to the blossoming of Portland and its people. Information from www.pittockmansion.org. Call 503-823-3623 or visit their website for additional information. For additional information, visit www.pittockmansion.org
  Portland Art Museum
The Portland Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest. The Museum’s collection includes works of European painting and sculpture, American painting and sculpture, English silver, Asian art, Native American art, Pre-Columbian art, Cameroon and other African art, contemporary art, sculpture, prints and drawings, and photography. Call 503-226-2811 or visit the website for additional information. For additional information, visit www.portlandartmuseum.org
  Portland International Airport
For information about airlines, parking, restaurants or shopping at the airport call 877-739-4636 or visit their website. For additional information, visit www.flypdx.com
  Portland Japanese Garden
This beautiful and tranquil garden features five gardens in 5.5 acres. Call 503-223-1231 or visit their website for additional information. For additional information, visit www.japanesegarden.com
  Portland Spirit River Cruise
Portland Spirit River Cruises offer Willamette River cruises and Columbia River cruises from downtown Portland Oregon aboard the Portland Spirit, the Willamette Star, the Crystal Dolphin and the Outrageous Jetboat. Call 1-800-224-3901 or visit their website for additional information. For additional information, visit www.portlandspirit.com
  Portland Walking Tours
Portland Walking Tours offers a wide range of walking tours- from the Best of Portland, to Underground Portland to an Epicurean Excursion. Call 503-774-4522 or visit their website for additional information. For additional information, visit www.portlandwalkingtours.com
  Powell's City of Books
Powell's City of Books has over a million new and used books on the shelves. Get lost in the nine color coded rooms while searching through the 3,500 sections. This is more than just a bookstore, it's an entire block! Call 1-800-878-7323 or visit their website for additional information. For additional information, visit www.powells.com
  Travel Portland
Portland's one-stop visitor center, includes local events calendar and trip planning information. Visitor's information center conveniently located in Pioneer Courthouse Square (also known as Portland's living room). Call 1-800-962-3700 or visit their website for additional information. For additional information, visit www.travelportland.com
  Tri Met
Tri Met is Portland's public transportation system (includes lightrail, streetcar and buses). Call 503-238-7433 or visit their website for more information. For additional information, visit www.tri-met.org
  Waterfront Bicycle
Whether you're looking to rent a bike for a few hours or for a week, Waterfront Bicycle will have what you need. All rentals include a helmet, lock and handlebar bag. Choose from five styles of bikes. Website includes suggested rides. Call 503-227-1719 or visit their website for additional information. For additional information, visit www.waterfrontbikes.com
  Seattle, WA Seattle Center
Originally built for the 1962 World's Fair, the 74-acre Seattle Center is a park, arts, and entertainment center in Seattle. Its landmark feature is the 605-foot tall Space Needle, which when it was completed was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River. It is also home to major sports teams, top performing arts groups and the city's most recognized attractions.
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


A Guide to the Indian Tribes of the Pacific Northwest


Author: Robert Ruby and John Brown


Cataclysms on the Columbia: The Great Missoula Floods


Author: John Eliot Allen, Marjorie Burns, Scott Burns


Description: The formation of the Grand Coulee remained a mystery for many years, until J Harlen Bretz proved that the Columbia River basin was the site of huge floods 15,000 years ago that created the landscape we see today. This is the BEST book on the subject.



Chihuly: 365 Days


Author: Dale Chihuly


Description: Chihuly: 365 Days is a richly illustrated photo survey of his entire four-decade career, with more than 500 pictures showing all facets of his work—from intimate smaller pieces to the tremendous outdoor installations that have thrilled millions of visitors. There are also personal photos of the artist; of “Team Chihuly” at the Boathouse, his studio in Seattle, Washington; and of his marvelous drawings—all selected by the artist himself. Most of the photographs have never before been published.



Magic Islands: A Treasure-Trove of San Juan Islands Lore


Author: David Richardson


Mount St. Helens: The Eruption and Recovery of a Volcano


Author: Rob Carson


Description: Author Rob Carson’s essays, accompanied by incredible photos, outline the events leading up to and following the eruption, with a special look at the 20-year process of the mountains rebirth.



Pacific Northwest Wildflowers


Author: Damian Fagan


Description: With more than 350 color photographs, detailed line drawings, and helpful, informative text, this book introduces more than 300 of the most common wildflowers of the lush Pacific Northwest region. Glossaries, a primer on plant indentification, and an introduction to the ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest are also included.



Sunrise to Paradise: The Story of Mount Rainier National Park


Author: Ruth Kirk


Description: On clear days, the mammoth volcano Mount Rainier dominates the Seattle and Rainier dominates the Seattle Tacoma skylines and can be seen from Whidbey Island to Yakima and the central Washington wheat fields. "The Mountain's out!" is a cheerful local greeting, especially after a long spell of overcast weather. Sunrise to Paradise explores the rich history of this symbol of the Pacific Northwest and the national park that preserves it.





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