The Corps of Discovery: Montana to Oregon by Land & River

Activity note: Hotel check-in from 4:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Program Check-in: After you have your room assignment, come over to the Road Scholar table to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived.

Dinner: In our private meeting space at the hotel.

Evening: Orientation: The group leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This is a Road Scholar Adventures Afloat program. In addition to lectures and field trips exclusively for our Road Scholar group, you are invited to take advantage of activities and events aboard ship that are separate from the Road Scholar program. Throughout the program, we will be accompanied by a study leader who will present educational content. During the land portion, all transportation will be provided via motorcoach unless specified otherwise. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like according to your personal preferences. The group leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. All routes, field trips, and excursions are subject to change as weather and river conditions may affect the itinerary. River conditions could affect the progress of the ship, making it run late and sometimes miss ports because it is not safe to dock. Because of this, the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. The operators reserve the right to change the content of field trips and excursions without prior notice. The time available in each port is set by the cruise line. Whenever possible, the Road Scholar daily schedule indicates port arrival and departure times (subject to change by the cruise line). After orientation, continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night's sleep for the full day tomorrow.

Activity note: We will be getting on/off our motorcoach numerous times each day. Some of the stops are quick hops off for photo opportunities, and sometimes to better see and explain what has been discussed in onboard commentary. There will be hikes up to one mile almost daily during the motorcoach portion of the program. While on the American Empress, some land transportation will be provided via Hop On/Hop Off buses operated by the ship.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: Setting out from the hotel via motorcoach with our study leader, we will explore several locations important to the Lewis and Clark Expedition, including Decision Point Park, Fort Benton and Ryan Dam. We'll then head to the C.M. Russell Museum where the Old West lives on-- in one of the United States' finest museums of American Western art. It is also home of the most complete collection of Charles Marion Russell's artwork and memorabilia in the world. Also known as the "Cowboy Artist", Russell's artwork is part entertainment, part history lesson. In a fascinating presentation, learn about the life of this cowboy, outdoorsman, writer, philosopher, environmentalist, conservationist, artist, and passionate Plains Indians advocate. Following the presentation you'll be free to explore the museum on your own.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: After lunch we'll visit the Portage Overlook and then follow the infamous Portage Route, where the Corps of Discovery experienced a grueling, month-long trial to determine the best route around the falls, which became a serious underestimation on their part. After the tour we'll depart for the hotel.

Dinner: At the hotel.

Evening: Tonight we will begin our lecture series on Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. Also known as the Corps of Discovery, the Lewis and Clark Expedition departed the western border of the United States – what was then the Mississippi River – in May 1804 for the Pacific Northwest, reaching the Pacific Ocean in November 1805. Throughout the journey, they established relations with more than two dozen groups of Native Americans, mapped their route, and noted species of plants and animals new to science.

Activity note: Total driving time is approximately 2.5 hours; getting on/off the motorcoach.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: Checking out of the hotel, we will board the motorcoach for Rainbow Falls Overlook, followed by a stop at Giant Springs. It was here in 1805 that Lewis and Clark “discovered” one of the largest freshwater springs in the country - flowing at a rate of 156 million gallons of water per day! Afterward, we'll head to the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center to explore and learn more about the Corps of Discovery’s journey west.

Lunch: Boxed lunch at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center.

Afternoon: After lunch, we'll explore First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park - the largest bison cliff jump in North America. We'll learn how native people used buffalo jumps for hunting. For centuries, native peoples would stampede buffalo off of the mile-long cliff with tribe members waiting below to finish the kills. In some areas at the base of the cliff, there are up to 18 feet of compacted buffalo skeletons. After exploring, we will board the motorcoach and head on to Helena to our next hotel.

Dinner: At the hotel.

Evening: In the meeting room at the hotel we will have another lecture by our Study Leader, learning more about the Corps of Discovery.

Activity note: Total driving time is approximately 5 hours; getting on/off the motorcoach.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: This morning we'll board the motorcoach and head to the State Capitol Building in Helena, set amid 10 acres of spacious lawns. With our Study Leader, we will explore the handsome capitol building, which was completed in 1902. Among its many beautiful paintings is C.M. Russell's magnificent historical depiction of Lewis and Clark meeting the Indians at Ross' Hole on September 5, 1805 We'll continue our exploration of Helena with an expert led field trip where we'll learn more of the rich history of town.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Following lunch we'll board our motorcoach to head west to Missoula. During the trip we'll make a stop at the Hi-Country Jerky Trading Post for a brief opportunity to stretch your legs and explore. More than just a typical trading post, it is also home to the Upper Blackfoot Valley Historical Society; there are many artifacts on display.

Dinner: At the hotel.

Evening: In the meeting room at the hotel we will have another lecture by our Study Leader, learning more about the Corps of Discovery.

Activity note: Elevation up to 5,233 ft. Walking at the parks and visitors center. Total driving today is approximately 5 hours; getting on/off the motorcoach.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: This morning we'll visit Travelers’ Rest State Park, where the expedition camped September 9-11, 1805 and June 30-July 3, 1806. Continue to learn about Lewis and Clark and how they stopped here on both portions of their trip. On the return journey the Corps of Discovery separated into two parties as to allow one group to explore Yellowstone country. In 2002, archaeologists found evidence of a latrine and central fire of a Corps camp. This is the second of the two sites with physical confirmation of the group's visit. Next, we will head to Lolo Summit and explore the Lolo Pass Visitor's Center. A National Historic Landmark, Lolo Pass was traversed by the Corps on their westward journey. Also used by the Nez Perce people, the Lolo Trail was known as “naptnišaqs” or “Nez Perce Trail” in Salish. Afterward, we'll continue to the Lochsa Lodge.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: After lunch, we will stop at Canoe Camp, where the expedition camped and built five canoes for their journey down the Clearwater, Snake and Columbia Rivers. It was here that the expedition finally reached navigable waters after hardships in the Bitterroot Mountains. At Nez Perce National Historical Park, we will learn about the ways of the Nez Perce people and view a sample canoe. The Nez Perce called themselves Nimi'ipuu, which means “real people” or “we the people.” Nimi'ipuu oral history records their presence in these lands since time immemorial. More than any other group in their travels, the Corps of Discovery became friendliest with the Nez Perce, who gave them assistance at their most desperate time in the expedition in the autumn of 1805. In return, Lewis and Clark promised a productive relationship with the U.S. government (promises the government never kept as it pursued a policy of Manifest Destiny). Still, in 1806 when the expedition returned, they were welcomed by the Nez Perce. Next, we'll continue on to Lewiston, Idaho.

Dinner: At the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Activity note: Getting on and off a motorcoach. Walking as much as you want in the park on paved pathways.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: This morning we'll board our motorcoach and make way to the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center. Located in Hells Gate State Park, this center sits on two acres and has both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Here we'll enjoy self guided exploration. We won't want to miss the short film "From the Mountains to the Sea: Lewis and Clark in Idaho".

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: This afternoon we will depart to Clarkston, WA, where we'll board the American Empress to begin the river portion of our journey.

Dinner: Each evening, we will dine at a designated time in The Astoria Dining Room with plated meals featuring locally sourced Pacific Northwest ingredients, plus coffee, tea, beer, wine, water.

Evening: Spend the evening relaxing, exploring the ship, or with fellow participants discussing the day's activities.

Activity note: Getting into and out of a jet boat.

Breakfast: Aboard ship.

Morning: This morning we will depart for a jet boat ride along the Snake River. Hells Canyon is North America's deepest river gorge at 7,993 feet. Protected as a National Recreation Area since 1975, it preserves a world of fascinating natural and cultural elements. Vertical cliffs carved by the river now hem in the rushing waters. Watch dramatic scenery unfold as we jet upriver. We'll watch for big horn sheep and hawks throughout the journey. Along the route we will view petroglyphs, reminders of the Nez Perce people that were the earliest inhabitants of the canyon. After our journey we will return to the ship.

Lunch: Aboard ship.

Afternoon: At leisure.

Dinner: Aboard ship.

Evening: Spend the evening enjoying the ship's entertainment or with fellow participants discussing the day's activities.

Activity note: Walking at Sacajawea State Park and the REACH Museum.

Breakfast: Aboard ship.

Morning: With our study leader, we will depart via the Hop On/Hop Off bus and head to Sacajawea Historical State Park and Interpretive Center. It offers fascinating exhibits on the Lewis & Clark expedition. At this location the Columbia and Snake rivers converge. You will also have some free time to experience the Confluence Project. Working with Pacific Northwest tribes, local civics groups, and landscape artists and architects, renowned artist Maya Lin has designed installations that draw from Lewis and Clark’s journey as well as the region's natural and indigenous peoples’ history. We’ll return to the ship for lunch.

Lunch: Aboard the ship.

Afternoon: Following lunch we’ll continue exploring Richland with our Study Leader on the Hop On/Hop Off bus. Before dinner, we will join our fellow Road Scholar participants for a cocktail reception.

Dinner: Aboard ship.

Evening: At leisure. Enjoy the evening entertainment program aboard the ship.

Activity note: Walking at your own pace, as much as you want at the Discovery Center and museum.

Breakfast: Aboard ship.

Morning: Known as the end of the Oregon Trail, The Dalles has long been a destination point for pioneers and adventurers alike. With our study leader, we will depart via the Hop On/Hop Off bus and head to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, where interactive displays bring to life the volcanic upheavals and historic floods that created the Columbia River Gorge. Under the National Scenic Act in 1986, the incredible natural and cultural history of the region was protected to help preserve the magnificent landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, ancient Indian rock art and more.

Lunch: Aboard ship.

Afternoon: After lunch we’ll board a motorcoach and make our way to the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum (WAAAM). Here we’ll learn about the evolution of transportation and view an extensive collection of antique cars, motorcycles, and airplanes. We’ll also have a chance to view the Aircraft Restoration Shop where these antique vehicles are restored until operational. One amazing fact about WAAAM is that all of their vehicles are fully operational! On the museum’s runway, you’ll get the chance to ride in an authentic Model T. After this field trip, we’ll head back to the ship.

Dinner: Aboard ship.

Evening: Spend the evening enjoying the ship's entertainment or with fellow participants discussing the day's activities.

Activity note: Walking at your own pace, as far as you want at Multnomah Falls, and Vista Point. Getting on and off a motorcoach.

Breakfast: Aboard ship.

Morning: As we sail toward Stevenson, we'll continue our study of the Corps of Discovery with a lecture from our study leader.

Lunch: Aboard ship.

Afternoon: Boarding a motorcoach, we’ll make our way to the scenic, Multnomah Falls. The second-highest year-round waterfall in the nation, it plummets 620 feet from its origins on Larch Mountain. At the base of the falls is the Historic Multnomah Falls Lodge with a Forest Service Visitors Center we will explore. Trails from the lodge get you close up views of the falls and tie into trails to other waterfalls in the area. Those who wish to walk on the trails are welcome to do so. Next we’ll enjoy a scenic drive along what has been called the “King of Roads,” the Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway. The Historic Columbia River Highway was built in 1913 and specially designed to complement the region’s stunning landscape without interrupting it. We’ll stop at Crown Point and then visit the unique Vista House which offers a stunning view of the Columbia River.

Dinner: Aboard ship.

Evening: Spend the evening with fellow participants discussing the day's activities or take in some entertainment aboard the ship.

Breakfast: Aboard ship.

Morning: Today we will remain on the ship cruising through the area. We will see picturesque canyon walls, mountains and fertile fields as we learn about the Corps of Discovery's trip through this area from our study leader.

Lunch: Aboard ship.

Afternoon: Continuing our relaxing day of river cruising through wonderful scenery.

Dinner: Aboard ship.

Evening: Spend the evening enjoying the ship's entertainment or with fellow participants discussing the day's activities.

Activity note: Walking on paved paths, boardwalks, and seashore at Cape Disappointment and Fort Clatsop, self-exploration at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, and an opportunity to climb the Astoria Column (164 stairs) if you wish.

Breakfast: Aboard ship.

Morning: This morning we will depart via the Hop On/Hop Off bus to visit the Astoria Column with our study leader. This magnificent monument stands 600 feet above sea level and gives the perfect view to Young’s Bay, the Coast Range, the Columbia River and in the distance, even the Pacific Ocean. Next, we will board the Hop On/Hop Off bus for the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Founded in 1962, the Columbia River Maritime Museum has become one of the top maritime museums in the country, with the mission of preserving the maritime heritage of the Columbia River region and the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can explore the Lightship Columbia, a National Historic Landmark. It was the final lightship to be moored at the mouth of the Columbia River. Visitors can also roam the museum’s collection of more than 30,000 items, experience what it was like to pilot a tugboat in the tugboat simulator, and hear stories of Coast Guard rescues on the Columbia River Bar. After exploring the museum you are free to walk back to the ship for lunch.

Lunch: Aboard ship.

Afternoon: This afternoon we will depart with our study leader via Road Scholar exclusive motorcoach to visit Middle Village and Station Camp, where the Corps spent many days in November of 1805, pinned along the stormy Columbia River shores. We will proceed on to Cape Disappointment, which overlooks the confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean; the Corps' ultimate destination. We'll then head to Fort Clatsop, where the Lewis & Clark expedition spent the harsh winter of 1805-1806.

Dinner: Aboard ship.

Evening: Enjoy the on board entertainment or take time to share memories with your fellow travelers. Be sure to take some time to ready yourselves for departure in the morning.

Activity note: Disembarkation at 7:30 a.m. Arrivals at the airport at approximately 8:30 a.m.

Breakfast: Aboard ship.

Morning: Disembark the ship in Vancouver, Washington. Transfers to the Portland International Airport are provided. This concludes our program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!