Nez Perce and Hells Canyon Adventure

After breakfast this morning, explore the Spokane downtown and waterfront. Take in the spectacular views of the second longest urban waterfall in the United States from the Sky Ride gondola. A Northwest culinary experience will be on full display this evening as we gather for a group dinner.

Optional Add-On (based on availability):

Spokane Indians Baseball Game
The Spokane Indians Baseball Club and the Spokane Tribe of Indians have created a unique partnership to represent the regions first inhabitants. The Salish language and its heritage are represented in the logo, jerseys and throughout the stadium experience. 

Overnight. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast at the hotel, board your motor coach and journey south to Palouse Country and the Snake River. Along the drive you’ll stop for lunch before arriving at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers for your “Echoes of Our Ancestors” Jet Boat tour. Join Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) guide(s) on a 3-hour jet boat trip up the Snake River upon Nimiipuu homeland. Experience the places Nez Perce ancestors call home and learn the importance of “Tsceminicum” (She-mi-ni-cum) where the waters meet. Gain insight into the power place of Nimiipuu, learn the teachings of why the waters are sacred. Nimiipuu guides will help you envision the prominent villages. Hear legends and visit the ancient messages they left for the Nez Perce in the petroglyphs along the rocks of Buffalo Eddy. Allow the rich history and culture of Nimiipuu to awaken your soul. This tour is designed to be educational and transformational as the sacred landscape and voices echo through your visit. After the boat ride, check into the Clearwater Casino for 3 nights. Dinner on your own.

Overnight. Meals included: Breakfast

This is our day of western history including the Nez Perce and Lewis & Clark. After breakfast at the hotel we are welcomed by Nimiipuu guides as we explore their homeland. Your guides will highlight both ancient Nez Perce cultures and the more recent Western explorations as you visit different, but connected, local attractions. The Nez Perce National Historical Park offers an in depth look at the regions first residents and the landscape they called home. You’ll have a choice of interactive presentations on the following topics: Horse Culture, Tipi Building, or Canoe Culture. For lunch, we’ll visit a local fine dining establishment.

America’s first pioneers travelled this area, and after lunch we travel up the Snake River to Hells Gate State Park and the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center which includes numerous interpretive displays and a movie theater to bring this epic journey to life. Finish the day back at the Clearwater Casino to enjoy the rest of the evening.

This evening’s engagement will demonstrate the cultural values of Nimiipuu, with live history, celebration and entertainment allowing for question and answer segments. Nez Perce Tourism weaves together a celebration of cultural foods, song, and dance, offering an exclusive experience that flows together like the currents in the river. Meet your host Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) host drum who prides themselves in knowing the old Nimiipuu songs as well as composing new songs for contemporary use at powwows and music/performance competitions. Their first song will be the Nimiipuu flag to honor Nez Perce ancestors who have traveled before them. Next is a circle dance song, which gives all participants a chance to interact with one another. Become immersed in the song and dance of Nez Perce and witness a performance from 5 traditional dancers with a full explanation of each origin style.

Overnight. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast this morning we travel north returning to the Spokane Valley. Upon arrival in Spokane, we will have time to enjoy the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture and Manito Park. Overnight at The Davenport hotel.

Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture
This museum houses the State of Washington’s largest collection of Native American artifacts and cultural exhibits. Currently on display through August 2022: Awakenings: Traditional Canoes and Calling the Salmon Home.

Manito Park
Rose gardens, perennial, and Japanese gardens are all part of this 90 acre park created in 1904. Enjoy a walk on its many trails.

Overnight. Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel prepare for your return flight home. Transfer to Airport.

Meals included: Breakfast