tworoadsconverged
Aug 2019
Two friends & I on an annual road trip decided to ditch the car and opt for this half-day Gray Line bus tour of Columbia River Gorge and Multnomah Falls just outside of Portland. It was well worth the investment. Brian, our guide, who we gathered is a life-time resident of Portland, was a worthy guide and driver, maneuvering both the road and the narrative with ease and evident love for his city, its history and natural surroundings. He revealed details at every stop, and all along the way, of the mountains, rocks, topography, and history, interspersing here and there his personal experience growing up in the area and sharing his appreciation for the beauty of the sites with his family. We had ample time at each stop to explore, and he was sure to point out items of special interest--a fact here and there about the construction of the route or the buildings, or some detail about how the rock has worn down over ages. He even offered to accompany me back to the falls to be sure I could see the baby salmon in the stream I had missed. The Bonneville Dam and fish hatchery--along with the lore and stories about special fish inhabitants--were unexpectedly fascinating. Well worth your time and money, and I didn't have to drive. One glitch only--finding the pink trolley at the street address referenced in the ticket. We arrived early and completely missed it. Perhaps better signage is in order? Otherwise, smooth sailing. Thanks, Brian! Thanks Gray Line.