By volume, the Columbia is the fourth-largest river in the U.S., and it has the greatest flow of any North American river draining into the Pacific. The river's heavy flow and its relatively steep gradient give it tremendous potential for the generation of electricity. The 14 hydroelectric dams on the Columbia's main stem and many more on its tributaries produce more hydroelectric power than those of any other North American river. (Wikipedia)
I deciced to fly the Columbia River, starting from the source, Columbia Lake in British Columbia all the way to where it dumps into the Pacific Ocean.
This is the first of what I assume will take several flights

I took off from Fairmont Hot Springs and flew south to circle Columbia Lake.

Turned around....headed North.



I think it's kind of strange how this river flows North for so long......

Coming up on the place where the river makes an about face and heads South.

A good place to