It's easy to see how water shapes the land. Water has been called the most powerful element because it resists nothing and can wear down rock. A river like the Columbia shapes human lives, too. How about a trip that explores how the river has influenced human life? You can drive from Vancouver to the coast, and back to Portland in a day, and enjoy two states on one tank of gas.

To the Coast through Washington

Ridgefield, WA National Wildlife Refuge (off I-5 near Longview)

A one-hour drive from San Francisco takes you from the urban gray city streets to the rolling fields of grapes and bright blue skies of the Napa Valley. This famous wine region is known for fruity Cabernets and bold Merlots. Tourists flock to the tasting rooms to stand elbow-to-elbow waiting for their turn to take a sip from a tiny glass.

Looking to squeeze in one last vacation before fall arrives and the kids (or you) go back to school? Why not do a road trip?