16 Day American Cruise Lines River Cruise from Hayden Island to Jackson 2026

Day 1 Jackson, WY

Arrive at Jackson Hole Airport and be welcomed to Jackson, where your journey begins amidst the dramatic scenery of the Tetons. Start your day exploring the charming town square, with its iconic elk antler arches and vibrant local shops. Take a scenic walk or bike ride along the Snake River, where you might spot wildlife against the stunning mountain backdrop. Your Adventure Guides will be your window into this region as they direct you throughout your journey. As the sun sets over the incredible landscape, gather for a welcome dinner, sharing stories and anticipation for the itinerary ahead.

Day 2 Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks

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, vibrant mountain meadows, shimmering 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.

Wrap up your day at the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole, which houses a vast collection of art focused on the wildlife of North America.

Day 3 Yellowstone National Park

Continue your explorations in Yellowstone by venturing into the lower section of the Grand Loop. Take in the roaring 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 breathtaking diversity of the landscape—from soaring mountains to deep canyons—and the wildlife that thrives in this protected ecosystem. Stop for a relaxing lunch at the Grant Village Dining Room.

Conclude your day with an evening of local entertainment. Choose between a lively performance at the Yellowstone Playhouse, known for its engaging theatrical productions, or a rustic experience at Meadow Vue Ranch with cowboy-themed activities and storytelling under the stars.

Day 4 Experience 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 5 Travel toward Glacier National Park

Begin a captivating drive through Montana's majestic landscapes, where towering peaks transition into deep, enchanting valleys and dense forests open to expansive plains. Witness the stunning contrast between the craggy highlands and the gentle sweep of golden grain fields, yellow rangelands, and brown, freshly tilled earth reaching toward the horizon.

Along your route, Adventure Guides will enhance your experience with engaging narratives and activities that celebrate the splendor of the National Parks. Enjoy a delightful lunch in the historic town of Butte, MT, and take a leisurely pause in the quaint town of Ennis, MT. This journey offers a beautiful tableau of Montana's diverse landscapes, from mountainous terrains to the spacious open skies of the plains.

Day 6 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 7 Travel to Clarkston

Along your way, enjoy a stop in Coeur d'Alene, where you'll take a special luncheon cruise around the sparkling lake. Relish a gourmet meal while you take in the spectacular panoramic views of the pristine waters and surrounding mountains.

Next, travel to Clarkston, WA, and settle into your comfortable hotel. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating the remarkable experiences and friendships forged throughout your journey. This festive gathering will be the perfect conclusion to your adventure, filled with laughter, shared stories, and a sense of camaraderie.

Day 8 Begin Your Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise

Travel to Clarkston and board the ship to kick off your extraordinary cruise along the Columbia & Snake Rivers.

Set in an expansive valley surrounded by dramatic hillsides, Clarkston graces the shoreline where the Snake River meets the Clearwater River. Named for William Clark of the historic Lewis and Clark Expedition, Clarkston's origins date back to the late 1890s, with roots tracing to the Nez Perce, the Native American tribe that originally inhabited the valley. Head to Hells Canyon for a thrilling boat ride or a captivating aerial flightseeing tour through the deepest canyon in North America. Experience the wild landscapes, where grand mountain peaks rise above vast stretches of remote wilderness, making every moment unforgettable.

Day 9 Richland, WA

Richland sits along the beautiful 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 10 Cruising the Columbia River Gorge

From the secluded vantage of your private balcony, witness the awe-inspiring 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 11 The Dalles, OR

Experience the grand roar of Multnomah Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States, as it cascades dramatically 620 feet from its cliff to the river below. Explore the world of sustainable energy at the Bonneville Dam visitor center, where interactive exhibits delve into the complexities of hydroelectric power. Visit the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum to gain insights into the natural and cultural history of the area. Alternatively, explore the quaint town of The Dalles, just a short journey from our dock, where you'll find a delightful blend of small-town atmosphere and distinct Pacific Northwest culture. Or you may choose to simply relax on deck with a refreshing drink, soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 12 Kalama, WA

From our newly established dock in Kalama, Washington, set off on a breathtaking drive through the Cascade Mountains to marvel at the awe-inspiring 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 13 Astoria, OR

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 14 Day of Cruising

On this day of cruising, your backdrop is the awe-inspiring Mount Hood and the dramatic Mount St. Helens framing your journey as we sail towards the confluence 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 15 Portland, OR

Enjoy breakfast on board. As we transport you to the airport to start your journey home, reflect on your extraordinary journey and the memories and friendships forged along the way. We thank you for joining us and being a part of this unforgettable experience.