Astoria, Oregon

During our stay in Cannon Beach we took the short drive up Highway 101 to visit nearby Astoria. Situated on the mouth of the Columbia River, one can cross over to Washington State via the 4.2 mile Astoria-Megler Bridge. Early explorations by Lewis and Clark helped shaped the history of this city, with the Fort Clatsop National Memorial commemorating the western end of the Lewis & Clark Trail. The Astoria Column is a prominent landmark, sitting in a wooded area 600 feet above sea level, and is Oregon's highest point. From the top of the column visitors are treated to views of the Columbia River, the snow-capped volcanoes of the Cascade Range in the east, and Saddle Mountain to the south. On the day we visited Astoria, we spent time at the Saturday Market, went to the top of the Column, and toured Fort Clatsop. We went with friends who were visiting us in Cannon Beach, who happened to have family in Astoria, so we were lucky enough to have personal tour guides and were treated to much of the local yore and history.