Author Event: Paddle to the Pacific by Laurie Wilhite

Join Laurie Wilhite to discuss her book, Paddle to the Pacific, a journey down the Columbia River by kayak.

Washington native, Laurie Wilhite, began her kayak journey down the Columbia River just below the John Day Dam. Her paddle to the Pacific led her through the Columbia River Gorge where she was raised and on to the Pacific Ocean near Astoria, Oregon. This is the story of her journey of reflection of life along the Columbia River.

Experience the Columbia River from the water through the story of Laurie's journey by kayak. Geology, wildlife, history, and people along the river come together to form this rich tale of adventure. Slow down the pace, feel the river mile after mile, and join her journey of reflection.

Born and raised in the Columbia River Gorge, I spent most of my life rushing up and down the river to appointments, events, and vacations. When I retired from teaching high school for over 30 years, I decided to get to know the Columbia River in a new way--from river level.

As the reader of Paddle to the Pacific travels with me on the kayak journey, a more thorough understanding of the Columbia River will be gained. Each paddle of approximately 15 miles on the river has become a chapter in this book.

The sections were not paddled in order from east to west but experienced when family and friends were available to join me for various stretches. Reflecting on my life’s journey over the years spent living near the Columbia River was the goal of this adventure. Learning and reflecting from river level opens new perspectives. Please join me on my paddle to the Pacific!