National Parks & Legendary Rivers – American Encore

Day 1: Portland, OR

Portland, Oregon, thrives as a hub of creativity and natural splendor, seamlessly blending urban life with the outdoors. The city is enveloped by scenic waterways, with the Willamette River cutting through its heart and the mighty Columbia River defining its northern reach, offering ample opportunities for water sports and riverside activities. Neighborhoods like the Pearl District showcase a contemporary, artistic flair, while Hawthorne maintains a quirky atmosphere with vintage shops and eclectic boutiques. Portland’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its well-utilized bike paths, efficient public transit, and numerous eco-friendly initiatives, making it a leader in environmental conservation.

Day 2: Cruising the Columbia River

Step aboard the American Encore in the port of Camas-Washougal and embark on a scenic cruise with the awe-inspiring Mount Hood and the dramatic Mount St. Helens framing your journey as we sail towards the convergence of the West’s most storied river.

With postcard views, watch as the mountains blend into the sky, the trees hug the shores, and the wildlife coexist alongside you.

Day 3: Astoria, OR

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.

Day 4: Kalama, WA

From our 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 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.

Day 5: The Dalles, OR

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.

Day 6: Cruising the Columbia River Gorge

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.

Day 7: Richland, WA

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.

Day 8: Cruising the Snake River/Clarkston, WA

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.

Day 9: National Parks Adventure Begins

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.

Day 10: Glacier National Park

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.

Day 11: Travel Toward Yellowstone National Park

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.

Day 12: Explore Yellowstone National Park

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.

Day 13: Experience Yellowstone National Park

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 inside the park.

Day 14: Explore Yellowstone and Travel to Grand Teton National Park

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.

Day 15: Grand Teton National 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.

Explore the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole, which houses a vast collection of art focused on the wildlife of North America. After, enjoy dinner in Jackson with time to explore on your own.

Day 16: Jackson, WY

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.