Cascades, Coasts, and Crater Lake
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Washington and Oregon on a journey that blends rugged coastlines, towering waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and charming seaside communities. From the sparkling waters of Puget Sound to the deep blue waters of Crater Lake National Park, every day brings a new adventure and unforgettable scenery.
Watch for whales along the Oregon Coast, cross the impressive Astoria-Megler Bridge, and experience the thrill of riding across Florence's towering sand dunes in a giant dune buggy. Cruise the Columbia River, explore the High Desert with expert naturalists, and spend relaxing evenings in welcoming coastal towns and mountain communities. With comfortable accommodations, thoughtfully planned sightseeing, and plenty of memorable moments along the way, this is the Pacific Northwest at its very best.
Highlights of Cascades, Coasts, and Crater Lake
- Marine Discovery Cruise along the Pacific Coast
- 2 nights in the coastal town of Newport
- Scenic canoe float trip on the Cascade Lakes under the stars
- A day exploring Crater Lake National Park
- Private Native American Experience on Warm Springs Reservation
- Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
- View the WWII Military Operation Kites
DAY 1: WELCOME TO WASHINGTON COAST!
Fly into Seattle-Tacoma and meet your fellow travelers at a welcome dinner. D
DAY 2: LONG BEACH, WA
Head south to Puget Sound’s Inlet bayfront and enjoy a fresh coastal lunch at the historic Olympia Oyster Company. Discover the elite craftsmanship of a bygone era with a guided tour of the Northwest Carriage Museum. Unpack for the night and perhaps stroll to the beach to gaze up at the stars. B, L
DAY 3: ASTORIA OREGON/HAYSTACK ROCK
Discover a colorful morning stop at the kaleidoscopic World Kite Museum and see WWII Military Operational Kites before crossing the Columbia River on the spectacular Astoria-Megler Bridge into Oregon. Follow the Oregon coastline south to Cannon Beach for oceanfront group dining at Wayfarer Restaurant in full view of the acclaimed Haystack Rock. Take some free time to dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean and stroll the beach before traveling to the cliffside, idyllic Hallmark Resort for a 2-night stay in premium, unobstructed ocean-view rooms. B, L
DAY 4: NEWPORT/PRIVATE CAPTAIN’S CRUISE
Step aboard a private Marine Discovery sea life cruise guided by certified naturalist captains to watch for resident whales, seals, and coastal lighthouses. Learn about crabbing, and take the opportunity to hold one! Explore the historic old bayfront boardwalk with lunch on your own. Enjoy a leisurely visit to the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, and stroll the scenic, paved cliffside trails before a refined, coastal group dinner. B, D
DAY 5: HECETA HEAD LIGHTHOUSE/DUNE BUGGY RIDE
Follow the coastal cliffs to iconic Heceta Head Lighthouse, then continue to Florence for a comfortable giant dune buggy ride across the towering sand hills. Enjoy a private lunch in Reedsport before traveling inland for a tasting at a renowned Umpqua Valley winery. Overnight in Roseburg. B, L
DAY 6: TRANQUIL CRATER LAKE/BEND, OR
Travel the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway to Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest lake in the United States. Take a narrated trolley tour around the rim, enjoy free time at the historic lodge or nearby trails, then continue to Bend for dinner and a two-night stay near the Deschutes River. Bend is the epicenter of the best stargazing in the US, be sure to take a peek upwards. B, D
DAY 7: HIGH DESERT/EVENING CANOE FLOAT
Dive into the volcanic history of central Oregon at the Lava Lands National Volcanic Monument. Enjoy lunch and shopping in Bend’s vibrant Old Mill District. Spend the afternoon uncovering the regional wildlife and culture at the world-class High Desert Museum. Get ready for a spectacular evening! Embark on a remarkable, naturalist-guided evening canoe float up the mountain on the Cascade Lakes. Enjoy front row views of Mount Bachelor and starry skies. B, D
DAY 8: COLUMBIA RIVER TRIBAL TRADITIONS/MULTNOMAH FALLS
Visit the Museum at Warm Springs to explore its Indigenous artifact galleries, followed by a private Salmon King Fisheries cultural presentation and traditional salmon tasting. Travel past Mount Hood into the Columbia River Gorge, where you’ll visit Multnomah Falls and enjoy dinner inside the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge. B, D
DAY 9: THE COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE/PORTLAND SPIRIT CRUISE
Stroll through the paths of the historic Peninsula Park Rose Garden, taking in the stunning blooms and formal French sunken-garden architecture before midday crowds arrive. Head to the vibrant city harborfront to board the elegant Portland Spirit for a river cruise featuring a premium plated lunch served onboard with live commentary. Treat yourself to some tax-free shopping in a walkable local boutique district and taste a Portland favorite at the world-famous Salt and Straw Ice Cream shop! Unwind with a relaxing evening. B, L
DAY 10: RETURN HOME
Return home looking back on an incredible journey from the rugged Pacific Coast to the volcanic majesty of the Cascades. B
QUALITY ACCOMODATIONS
Night 1: Doubletree, Tacoma, WA
Night 2: Best Western, Long Beach, WA
Nights 3-4: Hallmark Resort, Newport, OR
Night 5: Hampton Inn, Roseburg, OR
Nights 6-7: Element by Marriott, Bend, OR
Nights 8-9: Hyatt Place Portland Airport, OR
Dates:
Aug 5-14, 2027
Price Per Person:
Double: $3,447
Single: $4,645
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
Call for pricing
Depart/Return:
Depart: Seattle, WA
Return: Portland, OR
Inclusions:
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner
Airport Transfer included
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Seattle Airport, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart Portland International Airport (PDX) any time on day 10.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). At the conclusion of the tour, complimentary shuttle service is available from our ending hotel to Portland International Airport (PDX).
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.
Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
Seattle – High of 77°F, low of 58°F
Newport – High of 67°F, low of 52°F
Bend – High of 84°F, low of 47°F
Crater Lake National Park – High of 68°F, low of 40°F
Please note that elevations do reach up to 6,100 feet on this tour. Cooler weather can also prevail at higher elevations (such as Crater Lake).
Time Zone
Pacific
Hotel Amenities
Most accommodations arranged by Country Travel Discoveries are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, or laundry facilities.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, view Travel Protection Information.
