Explore Hells Canyon, North America’s Deepest River Gorge The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, managed by the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, hugs the borders of northeastern Oregon and western Idaho, and southeast Washington. This national showcase holds 652,488 acres of beauty and adventure, where you can let your senses run as wild as the landscape.
Hells Canyon offers scenic vistas that rival any on the continent. World-class whitewater boating. Spectacular mountain peaks. Vast reaches of remote wilderness for hiking or horseback riding. Diverse and abundant wildlife. Artifacts from prehistoric tribes and rustic remains of early miners and settlers. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area truly offers something for everyone, and much to remember. We know you will enjoy Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, whether you choose to explore by road, trail, or boat.
Access by Boat
The best way to experience Hells Canyon is by river on a thrilling jet boat tour or rafting adventure. Guided jet boat trips range from half day to full day. Your guide will share tales of the canyon from early Native Americans, miners, and ranchers. You’ll experience hidden petroglyphs with ancient messages, a variety of wildlife, white sandy beaches, and waterfalls as you pass through the deepest canyon in North America. Guided jet boat tours leave from Lewiston and White Bird seasonally daily.
Rafting outfitters provide multi-day trips. You’ll experience an array of whitewater rapids with plenty of time for hiking, fishing and relaxing on the beach. Guides will set up camp and prepare delicious and fresh meals for you to enjoy.
Access by Road
There is only one point of access by road into Hells Canyon from North Central Idaho, Pittsburg Landing. Just south of White Bird, take Deer Creek Road where it leaves Hwy 95 at mile marker 222. After crossing the Salmon River, turn left and stay on the main road, approximately 17 miles to Pittsburg Landing. This is a well-maintained single lane gravel road with turnouts, that crosses the divide between the Salmon and Snake rivers. There are steep grades on both sides of this divide, so visitors pulling travel trailers or driving RVs should use extreme caution.
Fishing in the Canyon
You can fish year round for Walleye, Catfish, Bass, and Trout. Salmon and steelhead fishing is seasonal and dependent on Idaho Fish and Game rules. The Snake River has some of the world’s largest sturgeon that grow up to 11 feet and can weigh over 400 pounds! These monster fish are the largest freshwater fish in North America. If you’re lucky enough to reel one in, snap a photo for bragging rights and release it….these fish are catch-and-release only.
Hiking & Camping in Hells Canyon
The Snake River National Recreation Trail (#102) winds along the Idaho side of the Snake River beginning near Pittsburg Landing. The trail follows rocky slopes, goes under cliffs, and along grassy canyons ending at Brush Creek. Some jet boat outfitters will drop you and your gear off at a sandy beach to access trailheads or for an overnight stay in a rustic riverside lodge or campsite.
This area is remote and you’re likely to encounter rattlesnakes and poison ivy. Be prepared and check the latest advisories and closures with the Forest Service.
Glimpses of Hells Canyon
Catch views of Hells Canyon from scenic overlooks.
Low Saddle & Saw Pit Saddle Viewpoints
Access via primitive dirt and gravel Forest Road 241 off Hwy 95 near Riggins; Open June-Nov
Heavens Gate Overlook
19 miles west of Riggins off Hwy 95 on Forest Road 517 (rough, steep road); Elevation 8,400 ft; Open July-Sept
Permits are required year-round for all non-commercial floaters and powerboaters on the Snake River within the HCNRA. Take time to read the regulations printed on the back of the permit before embarking on your trip. During the primary river season, reservations and trip permits issued by the Forest Service are required to launch trips at specific locations along the river. Powerboat or float permits and reservations; General HCNRA Information 509.758.0616; Non-Commercial Float Information/Reservations 509.758.1957; Non-Commercial Powerboat Information/Reservations 509.758.0270