Columbia River Itineraries

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Top Columbia River Experiences

Embark on diverse experiences along the majestic Missouri River with our curated cruises. Explore a range of captivating activities and must-see spots, promising an unforgettable journey through the heart of America.
  • Tracing Lewis & Clark's route along the Missouri River, exploring the American West
  • Kayaking and boating in the National Recreation segment of the river
  • Encountering native wildlife like bald eagles and river otters
  • Fly fishing for monster brown trout, rainbow trout, and carp below Holter Dam and the Fort Peck Reservoir
  • Learning about the American West's history and art at the Lewis and Clark Trail Interpretive Center and the C.M. Russell Museum 
  • Visiting Hell's Canyon National Recreation Area, Fort Clatsop, and Lemhi Pass on the Continental Divide
  • Glamping along the Missouri River with all the necessary amenities
  • Exploring charming towns like New Madrid and Chester 
  • Discovering Paducah's colorful history and Old South traditions
  • Taking a tram to the top of Gateway Arch in St. Louis for breathtaking views of the Mississippi River
  • Stepping back in time at the historic river towns of Hermann and St. Charles
  • Savoring award-winning wines at the Les Bourgeois Vineyards
  • Dancing the night away to live music aboard the Missouri River boat cruise

Classic Columbia River Itineraries

Columbia River Cruise in 1 Week

Most Columbia River cruises are roughly 1 week or less. This amount of time takes you through the best and most picturesque parts of the river, diving into the legacy of Lewis & Clark as well as taking part in activities such as wine tasting.

Day 1, Portland: Begin your journey on the Columbia River in Portland, Oregon. This city is chock full of unique things to do and it’s residents are very proud of their city. So enjoy the vibrant downtown and maybe a beer or two at one of the many local craft breweries before embarking your cruise ship and setting sail.

Day 2, Astoria: Take a short cruise day west where you’ll dock at the mouth of the Columbia River in Astoria. Here there are several choices for activities before you continue on heading east toward the picturesque Mount Hood. Astoria lies right on the Pacific so you may have a chance to go sea kayaking or visit the maritime museum. It’s also recommended to take a tour of the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center which provides many fascinating insights into their expedition - the history of which frames much that you’ll see and do on your cruise.

Day 3, Mount Hood: Spend a full day cruising into the stunning Columbia River Gorge, passing Mount St. Helen’s in the distance, and viewing some amazing waterfalls along the way. Maybe take a hike to see one of the highest waterfalls in the United States: Multnomah Falls. You might also visit a local farm or winery before ending for the day at Mount Hood.

Day 4, The Dallas: Explore the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and take a hike or a bike ride along historic Highway 30.

Day 5, Palouse and Snake River: Enjoy even more time outdoors kayaking or taking a zodiac out on the tributary of the Snake River, the Palouse. Take the Snake River through Washington to Clarkson.

Day 6, Clarkson, WA: In Clarkson you can go whitewater rafting in Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America! The canyon route takes you past old abandoned gold mines and you can also view ancient Indian petroglyphs.

Day 7, Clarkson, WA: End your Columbia River cruise experience in Clarkson


Top Columbia River Tours

Columbia River Reviews & Ratings

5/5  Excellent
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Susan

Jul 2017

The Willamette valley ride was a perfect blend of beautiful scenery, great road maps and excellent Pinot Noir

My friend and I signed up for the self guided tour in Oregon. The Willamette valley ride was a perfect blend of beautiful scenery, great road maps and excellent Pino...

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Marc

Jul 2017

Lifecycle did a great job arranging our trip

Lifecycle did a great job arranging our trip. Adam was particularly delightful in making it a wonderful experience. I will mention that the drivers in Oregon were pa...

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Christopher

Sep 2016

At first I was quite sceptical about such a tour, but it was absolutely SUPERB!

My wife and I and our close friends met in Oregon to take a fully guided, week-long tour of the Wine Country (Willamette Valley, Hood River, etc) with LifeCycle. Tri...

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Marjorie

Aug 2016

The Oregon bike trip was one of the best trips

The Oregon bike trip was one of the best trips of my life and I can hardly wait to go on another one with you all! Thanks for the fantastic vacation! 5+ stars to you...

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Roy

Nov 2015

my wife and I had a fantastic time riding through the wine country of the Willamette Valley, around Mt. Hood

This was our first time in Oregon, and my wife and I had a fantastic time riding through the wine country of the Willamette Valley, around Mt. Hood, and back along t...

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