National Parks & Legendary Rivers

Explore Portland, Oregon—a city where outdoor adventure meets modern city life. Surrounded by natural beauty, the Willamette River runs through the city center, while the Columbia River forms its northern boundary. These rivers offer easy access to kayaking, paddleboarding, and waterfront trails.
Walk through neighborhoods like the Pearl District for modern art galleries and upscale dining, or head to Hawthorne for vintage shops and unique local stores. Portland supports green living with extensive bike lanes, reliable public transportation, and a focus on sustainability throughout the city.

Hotel Stay
Each Columbia and Snake Rivers itinerary includes a hotel stay before the cruise. After breakfast on cruise day, meet in the hotel lobby for direct transportation to the ship. Your luggage will be transferred from the hotel and placed in your stateroom before you board.

Board the ship at the Port of Camas-Washougal and begin your cruise with Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens in view. As the ship moves toward the meeting point of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, take in the surrounding landscapes—towering peaks, forested riverbanks, and local wildlife.

Welcome Aboard
Join a Welcome Reception featuring cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and live entertainment. Meet the crew, onboard specialists, and other guests. Get a clear overview of the cruise and what to expect in the days ahead.

The coastline of Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, captivates with its hillside of colorful Victorian homes that echo the charm of San Francisco. This vibrant town invites you to discover its unique streets on your own or join one of the many engaging excursions available.

Step back in time with a visit to the National Park Service's replica of Fort Clatsop, where the Lewis and Clark Expedition braved the winter of 1805-06. Jump aboard the classic red trolley for a scenic journey along Astoria's picturesque waterfront or ascend to the Astoria Column perched on a city bluff for breathtaking panoramic views. Wander through quaint local shops, vibrant art galleries, cozy wineries, and bustling craft breweries. Just steps from where your ship docks, the acclaimed Columbia River Maritime Museum awaits, ready to unfold the area’s extensive maritime story.

Columbia River Maritime Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Experience the Columbia River Maritime Museum on a self-guided excursion. The Columbia River Maritime Museum is the official maritime museum of the state of Oregon and also prides itself as being one of the finest maritime museums on the West Coast. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Astoria Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Explore downtown Astoria on your own aboard this convenient shuttle, which makes several stops on a continuous loop throughout the day including:

- Downtown Astoria - for shopping and exploring
- Heritage Museum - featuring Clatsop County’s rich and exciting history in permanent and changing exhibit galleries
- Astoria Column - a tower overlooking the mouth of the Columbia River, from which you can enjoy the majestic views of the countryside from land
- Flavel House Museum - once the home of Captain George Flavel, this 1885 Queen Anne home features original Eastlake influenced woodwork, period furnishings, and exotic hardwood

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

From the newly established dock in Kalama, Washington, set off on a drive through the Cascade Mountains to marvel at the remnants of Mount St. Helens. With a local guide bringing the journey to life, you’ll hear thrilling tales of the volcano’s explosive 1980 eruption and its dramatic impact on the landscape and community. Just steps from the ship, explore a sprawling city park, admire stunning local artwork displayed in a nearby hotel, and learn more about the region’s captivating history at an interactive interpretive center. Enjoy Washington in a glass with a short trip to a charming family-owned vineyard for an afternoon of exquisite wine tasting.

Mount St. Helens Experience - Complimentary Excursion
May 18, 1980, is a day etched into the history of the United States, as the powerful eruption of Mount St. Helens drastically changed the landscape of what is now referred to as the National Volcanic Monument. On your scenic journey to Mount St. Helens, learn about the eruption, how it affected the landscape and surrounding communities, and how the environment has responded naturally to the disturbance. Admire spectacular views of the pumice plain and blast site.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Port of Kalama Interpretive Center- Complimentary Excursion
Just a short walk from the ship, explore this new facility that celebrates Kalama’s unique place in Pacific Northwest history as a transportation and commercial hub, and is designed to replicate a traditional waterfront warehouse of the 1800s. Exhibits track Kalama’s first inhabitants, the Cowlitz Tribe, and the settlers that followed over the next hundred years, including renowned Oregon Trail writer Ezra Meeker. Displays illustrate how Kalama’s particular landscape gave birth to a booming transportation system, impacting the area both culturally and economically.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Mountain Timber Market – Complimentary Excursion
The name “Mountain Timber Market” is a tribute to the town’s history and the original Mountain Timber Company that was a staple in the early 1900s. Nestled between two breathtaking parks along the shores of the Columbia River, this location is ideal for a day of meandering and experiencing the true essence of Kalama. Steps away from the ship, this vibrant marketplace serves as a hub where neighbors come together and create lasting connections. Immerse yourself in a world of locally sourced food and finely crafted goods, all thoughtfully curated to reflect the rich tapestry of the community.

The two-story atrium of the Mountain Timber Market also showcases a suspended 140-foot totem pole previously displayed in the nearby park. For nearly five decades the totem pole, created in the early 1960s by Chief Don Lelooska, towered over the port waterfront until weather damage forced officials to take it down in 2019 for restoration.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Welcome to The Dalles, a historic gem at the end of the Oregon Trail. Framed by the majestic peaks of Mount Hood and Mount Adams, each soaring over 11,000 feet, this destination offers a quintessential taste of the Pacific Northwest’s raw beauty.

Immerse yourself in the region with thoughtfully curated activities. Marvel at the grandeur of Multnomah Falls, a 620-foot cascade that’s an awe-inspiring testament to Oregon’s natural wonders. For a more serene adventure, take to the Columbia River on a guided kayaking excursion, where you might encounter eagles, herons, osprey, or even playful otters. Round out your visit with wine tastings led by local experts, showcasing the exceptional vintages of the Columbia Valley.

Multnomah Falls - Complimentary Excursion
Plummeting 620 feet, Multnomah Falls is the second highest year-round waterfall in the nation. Experience the sights and sounds of this magnificent waterfall, fed by rain, snow-melt, and underground springs on Larch Mountain.

Admire the falls from the Visitor Center or take a short hike to Benson Bridge, one of the most photographed pieces of architecture in Oregon, to feel its misty spray and get a great photo.

Multnomah Falls also offers one of the best places in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area to view the basalt rock formations exposed by Ice Age Floods.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

The Dalles Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
The convenient Cruise Coach will provide a continuous loop with stops at the following locations:

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center - Discover the 10,000 years of indigenous native history that makes the Columbia Gorge one of the oldest areas of human habitation in the Western Hemisphere. Learn about early explorers like Lewis and Clark and the Oregon Trail pioneers, as well as energy and natural resources, and early transportation along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Explore many exhibits, activities, and native plantings surrounding an architectural gem.
Grand Theater - A historic venue, built in 1929 in a Spanish Revival architectural style, hosts a variety of performances in an intimate setting, including concerts, films, and live shows. In its early years, the theater was a popular stop for major stars, including  Judy Garland, known for her iconic role in The Wizard of Oz and her incredible vocal talent.
Neon Sign Museum - Imagine a simpler time. From streets that were fan faired with smaltz and glass beaded signs to windows dazzled from the glow of full storefront neon, America was booming. Suburbs were born and families were buying automobiles. Comics were a nickel and the good guys always won. Hamburgers were a dime and no one had sold a million. The National Neon Sign Museum captures the vibrant history, craftsmanship, and culture that shaped America as seen through the evolution of pre-electric vintage signage and advertising. From the turn of the century through the 1960s, The National Neon Sign Museum displays early ephemera, scientific equipment, industry machinery and spectacular examples of pre-electric and full store front neon signs. View, explore, and engage with signage and advertising from the turn of the century through the 1960s.  
Fort Dalles Museum - Housed in the former Surgeon's Quarters, the Fort Dalles Museum is in the only remaining officer's quarters of the 1856 Fort Dalles military complex. Explore the unique collection of pioneer and military artifacts and antique wagons at one of the old west's most pivotal places in history. Enjoy viewing the engaging exhibits and walking on the grounds of this military fort, built during the 1800s.
Anderson Homestead - There are three buildings that make up the Anderson Homestead: the log house, the granary, and the barn. Built in 1895 by Swedish immigrant Lewis Anderson, the house with its hand-hewn logs, was the social center of Pleasant Ridge in the late 1800s. The construction of the barn, with its careful fittings and the use of wood pegs in corners and at other intervals, reflects a high order of craftsmanship. 
Downtown - Take time to explore downtown The Dalles at your leisure.  Admire the murals throughout town and take time to browse the local shops.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

From the secluded vantage of your private balcony, witness the splendid scenery of the Columbia River Gorge. The gorge is renowned for its towering cliffs, which are cloaked in evergreen forests and rise from the river’s edge to heights of up to 4,000 feet. Below, the Columbia River stretches wide and gleaming, a key waterway that winds through the Pacific Northwest. Observe the thrill of windsurfers and kiteboarders as they skillfully navigate the river’s strong winds and currents, their colorful gear painting a striking contrast against the deep greens and blues of the natural landscape. 

A Day of Cruising
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

Richland sits along the Columbia River and offers a plethora of activities for visitors. Join us for the Pendleton Experience where you can venture through the countryside and discover the complex history of this town. The Reach Museum intrigues with its hands-on exhibits about the Columbia Basin's history and wildlife, making it a hit for all ages. Wine enthusiasts will delight in the many local vineyards, where you can savor some of the best wines in the country.

Sacajawea Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
Explore this fascinating destination, located at the very place where Lewis and Clark Expedition camped for two nights, amidst a thriving community of Native Americans. Learn about the activities that took place at the site through interactive exhibits about the Corps of Discovery and Sacagawea, woman known for her helping the Lewis and Clark Expedition Team. Stroll the green, tree-shaded grounds, and read the seven story circle installations by internationally known artist Maya Lin.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Richland City Exploration– Complimentary Excursion
Explore this captivating town by motorcoach as you discover its diverse history.  Along the way, learn about the Kennewick man. Make a stop at Triton Park where you will see the sail of a submarine, its control room, and learn about its connection to the Hanford Project. Next, visit the REACH Museum to discover Eastern Washington’s rich landscape and history from the Ice Age to the Atomic Age. Explore the featured galleries and rotating exhibits inside, as well as the amazing outdoor area with breathtaking views of the majestic Columbia River and surrounding scenery. Discover the geological impact of the Ice Age floods and basalt lava flows to the area. Learn about the Manhattan Project at Hanford and its continuous influence on the region.  

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes 

As you journey towards Clarkston, relish the opportunity to cruise along the famous Snake River. Experience the solitude of the remote wilderness and watch as the canyon hillsides unfold in a continuous display of breathtaking scenic panoramas. Keep an eye out for the rich wildlife, as the steep hillsides are home to white pelicans, osprey, bald eagles, cormorants, blue herons, and more.

Clarkston graces the banks of the Snake River, where it meets the Clearwater River, nestled in a valley framed by dramatic hills. Named after William Clark of the famed Lewis and Clark Expedition, Clarkston boasts a rich history that dates back to the late 1890s and has deep roots connected to the Nez Perce, the Native American tribe that originally populated the valley. For an unforgettable experience, take a venture to Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America. Whether by boat or an aerial flightseeing tour, explore this vast, untamed wilderness, surrounded by towering mountain peaks and expansive stretches of untouched land.

The Lewis & Clark Discovery Center at Hell's Gate State Park – Complimentary Excursion
Lewis and Clark traveled through the Hell's Gate State Park area during their journey to discover an inland waterway to the Pacific Ocean. Located within the park, the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center features indoor and outdoor displays, as well as a film describing the journey of Lewis and Clark through Idaho. Explore the two-acre outdoor interpretive plaza on the banks of the Snake River with a beautiful moving stream and sculptures by artist Rip Caswell. Be sure to stop in the Lewis and Clark gift shop.  

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

After breakfast and leaving the ship, travel north to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a cruise on Lake Coeur d’Alene, known for its crystal waters and surrounding forests. During the cruise, enjoy a lunch while admiring views of towering pine trees and the soft outlines of distant mountains reflected in the lake’s surface. Complete your day by traveling to Kalispell, where you’ll stay overnight, preparing for the next leg of your journey through this picturesque region.

Glacier National Park, often referred to as the "Crown of the Continent," spans over a million acres in Montana and boasts a stunning array of biodiversity and geological formations. Established in 1910, this park is home to over 130 named lakes, more than 1,000 different plant species, and hundreds of animal species. The park's dramatic landscapes are carved by ancient glaciers, with sharp peaks and deep valleys that continue to evolve today. Trek the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, a marvel of engineering completed in 1932, which offers breathtaking views and access to remote areas across the Continental Divide. The park also holds historical significance for its longstanding ties to the Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai tribes, who have revered this land for thousands of years, making it a place rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Set off on an exhilarating journey through Montana as you make your way toward the Yellowstone National Park. Along this vibrant route, your Adventure Guide will captivate you with lively stories and interactive activities about the national parks.

Your trip includes a delightful lunch stop in Butte, MT, a town shrouded in mining lore, followed by a restful pause in the charming town of Ennis, MT. This small community is a picturesque gem, nestled against a backdrop of rolling green mountains and clear blue skies, famous for its excellent fly fishing.

The drive itself is a visual feast, transitioning from the deep greens of dense forests and the jagged gray peaks of towering mountains to the expansive golden plains dotted with amber grain fields and the rich browns of freshly tilled earth. As you travel, your Adventure Guides will keep the excitement alive, enriching your understanding of each landscape with engaging narratives and hands-on activities.

After breakfast at your hotel, prepare for a full day of exploring Yellowstone National Park. Celebrated as the world's inaugural national park and famous for its extraordinary geothermal phenomena and geological wonders, Yellowstone spans an expansive area of nearly 3,500 square miles. This park boasts a terrain larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined. It is home to over 290 cascading waterfalls, with the mighty Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River standing out prominently.

Under the guidance of experienced nature guides, you will traverse the upper segments of Yellowstone’s Grand Loop, featuring a visit to the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley. Your journey continues with stops at the mesmerizing Norris Geyser Basin, the dynamic terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs, and the dramatic vistas at Tower Fall.

The day culminates with a specially arranged dinner at the historic Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, offering a perfect blend of culinary delights in a setting that echoes the natural beauty surrounding it.

Continue your explorations in Yellowstone by venturing into the lower section of the Grand Loop. Take in the beauty of the Yellowstone Falls and the serene West Thumb area. Venture to the unique Yellowstone Lake, one of the largest high-elevation lakes in North America.

Your journey will lead you through ancient geological formations, including vast sections of the Yellowstone Caldera formed over 640,000 years ago and the younger West Thumb Caldera that last erupted 174,000 years ago.

Throughout the day, witness the wonderful diversity of the landscape—from soaring mountains to deep canyons—and the wildlife that thrives in this protected ecosystem. Stop for a relaxing lunch at the Grant Village Dining Room.

Conclude your day with an evening of local entertainment. Choose between a lively performance at the Yellowstone Playhouse, known for its engaging theatrical productions, or a rustic experience at Meadow Vue Ranch with cowboy-themed activities and storytelling under the stars.

Today, Yellowstone National Park offers a showcase of its famous hydrothermal wonders. You'll visit iconic sites such as Old Faithful, known for its predictable eruptions of boiling water and steam, and Biscuit Basin, a dazzling array of colorful hot springs and geysers. After exploring these geothermal marvels, set off toward Grand Teton National Park. As you travel, enjoy the breathtaking scenery that unfolds along the route. The journey itself is a visual feast, featuring panoramic views of rugged mountains and pristine landscapes. Upon arrival at Grand Teton, make a stop at Jackson Lake Lodge. Here, take in the majestic views of the Teton Range reflected in the tranquil waters of Jackson Lake—a perfect backdrop for a memorable visit to this stunning park.

Begin your day with a refreshing cruise on Jackson Lake, take in stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Follow this with a guided exploration of Grand Teton National Park with your Adventure Guides. This sprawling park spans over 310,000 acres and features verdant valleys, mountain meadows, alpine lakes, and impressive peaks. Its rich history includes its past inhabitants: nomadic Native American tribes, early American explorers, and settlers.

Continue your exploration by visiting key cultural and informational landmarks within the park. Explore the Craig Thomas Discovery Center for an interactive learning experience about the park's environment. At the Jenny Lake Visitor Center, learn about the local wildlife and enjoy the serene lake set against the backdrop of the Tetons. Make sure to experience the panoramic views from Jackson Lake Lodge.

Wrap up your day at the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole, which houses a vast collection of art focused on the wildlife of North America.

After breakfast, American Cruise Lines will coordinate your transfer to the Jackson Hole Airport, marking the start of your journey home. As you leave, take a moment to soak in the final views of the Teton Range's dramatic peaks, which have framed your exploration. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences you've had in this region, from serene lake cruises to the diverse wildlife encounters. Saying goodbye isn't easy after such an eventful exploration, but the memories of your adventures in these stunning landscapes will accompany you long after you depart.