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Travel Adventures

Nature Explorations with Diane West-Bourke

"SPRING IN COLUMBIA RIVER COUNTRY"
with Naturalist Diane West-Bourke & John Wertzler
SUN. MAY 7 to SUN. MAY 14, 2017

The land flanking the lower reaches of the mighty Columbia River is justifiably famous among nature enthusiasts for its beauty, diversity & spectacular scenery. The lush month of May is a particularly beautiful time of year to explore this landscape shaped so dramatically over millennia by the dual actions of fire & water.

John Wertzler, a former MROSD docent & star student of mine, recently retired happily in Portland & has been avidly exploring hiking opportunities in the area. We have collaborated on this trip to create a diverse & enjoyable itinerary for you, based on his favorite finds. Special features will include:

  • Columbia River Gorge -- sheer basalt walls & BIG water!
  • Lofty stratovolcano views -- Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, Mt. Jefferson, Mt. St. Helens...
  • Tumultuous rivers, waterfalls & wetlands
  • Lush coastal forests, flowery meadows & open woodlands
  • Pastoral farm & orchard landscapes of the Hood River Valley

Treat yourself to something special! Hike by day, & socialize or relax by night in the comfort of our gracious Portland hotel, near intriguing 23rd Ave. shops & restaurants, & only minutes from the vibrant Pearl District. We'll also spend 3 days upstream in the picturesque village of Hood River, where our deluxe river-view rooms overlook the spectacular Columbia River Gorge.

We will meet each morning at 9am at our hotel, & carpool to the trailhead. Hikes will be easy to moderate, 2-5 miles, with elevations gains up to 800 feet. Hikes generally conclude by 3pm. Late afternoons & evenings are yours to enjoy: museums, shops, sightseeing ....

DATES: Meet in Portland SUN. MAY 7 -- depart SUN. MAY 14, 2017

COST: $ 1150 /person. Includes instruction; 5+ guided hikes & excursions; 7 nights lodging. Food & transportation not included. Maximum number = 16 travelers.

TRANSPORTATION: Not included. Trip begins in Portland, Oregon. Fly, drive, carpool or "ride the rails" on Amtrak. Three carpool vehicles available in Portland; rent additional vehicles if needed. Carpooling expenses to be shared.

LODGING: Includes hot breakfast, wi-fi, laundry, spa, parking. Double occupancy.

RESERVATIONS: Use the attached Reservation Form to reserve your space. Print, complete, & return the form to Diane with a $75 non-refundable deposit. Refundable balance due in full by MARCH 20, 2017. No lodging refunds for cancellations after April 5.

QUESTIONS???: Contact Diane by email at westbourke@earthlink.net OR by phone, later afternoons & evenings, at 831-423-6381.

HAPPY TRAILS!
Diane

  Last updated: 2/10/17