ID, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Snake River

This region was one of the first occupied in North America. While traversing the interior of the canyon you might encounter some of the ancient petroglyphs etched on the river's cliff walls by humans thousands of years ago. They provide experts with a key to unlock the secrets of America's earliest inhabitants. Over 1,500 archaeological sites have been identified in Hells Canyon which include villages and shelters from periods that date back 8,000 years.

Most rafting trips down the Snake River begin near the dam at Lewiston which many call the "Gateway to Hells Canyon". Where outfitters supply rafts or guide operated jet boats for trips down this Class III-IV river. The entire trip through Hells Canyon is 90 miles with the first 68 miles protected from development as part of the nation's Wild and Scenic River program. Its pristine beauty adds to the ambiance of secluded serenity as you shoot down the rapids.

Four miles south of Lewiston on the shores of the Snake River is Hells Gate State Park. The park contains 960 acres with 93 campsites (64 with electrical and water hookups) that are within 100 yards of the Snake River. The park is on land that is the lowest in Idaho at 733 feet above sea level. Boaters enjoy a 100 slip full-service marina, beach, and boat ramp. The campground is open from March- November ($10). An excellent place to camp while exploring the canyon. Outfitters provide jet boat trips into Hells Canyon from the park.

A more remote launching point is the boat ramp at Pittsburg Landing (#69 on the left). Located about 30 miles downstream from Lewiston. A good launching point for rafters choosing to avoid the dangerous rapids upstream. The water below Pittsburg Landing is much calmer and no advance permit is required here. Pittsburg Landing has a campground with 28 sites and is accessed by taking Rt 493 near White Bird and traveling 19 miles southwest. It is a steep, winding, gravel road and not recommended for RVs or large trailers. Lewiston, Hells Gate State Park, and Pittsburg Landing are the three major access points to the Snake River.

ID, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Pittsburg Landing

A trip on the Snake River is unmistakably the most thrilling way to see the Hells Canyon. Considering the scarcity of roads into this wilderness, it is in most cases the only way to see the canyon. Only 20% of Hells Canyon is accessible by car. An inconvenience that contributes favorably to maintaining the area's pristine wilderness condition.

If river rafting is not an option, one can travel by car to one of three access points to view the steepest parts of the Hells Canyon ie. Hat Point (Oregon), Hell's Canyon Dam (further south) and Heaven's Gate.

Hat Point is reached by traveling 24 miles southeast from Imnaha on forest road 4240 (no trailers or large RVs). The Hat Point Observation Point offers a view of the canyon from 6,982 feet. There are two small campgrounds located here with a total of 20 campsites (no water).

The Hells Canyon Dam vista is on the other side of the gorge. From Boise take I-84, 70 mi northwest to Rt 95, then Rt 95 40 mi to Rt 71. Travel north on Rt 71 until you intersect the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (Rt 454) which leads to the overlook at the Hells Canyon Dam. The entire trip is 23 miles to the end of the road at Hells Canyon Dam. There are picnic areas, boat launches, 2 campgrounds (Hells Canyon and Copperfield Park), and an observation tower along the route. The road is closed in the winter.

The third route to the edge of the canyon is by way of Heaven's Gate. Exit Rt 95 a few miles south of Riggins on FR 517. Proceed west on Rt 517 fifteen miles to Heaven's Gate. There are two small campgrounds located along the way but each has less than 10 sites. Note: All three routes to the canyon's edge have steep grades and not recommended for trailers or large RVs. FR 517 is a steep gravel road that climbs from 2,500 to 7,200 feet but the view from the top is unparalleled. It affords one of the best vistas of the deepest gorge in North America.

ID, Hells Canyon NRA's three highest access points to view the steepest parts of the canyon

The remote wilderness terrain of Hells Canyon promotes a prolific population of wildlife. Fisherman frequently catch trophy sized trout, salmon, catfish, and giant white sturgeon (the largest freshwater fish in America growing up to 15 feet which is now endangered and a catch and release fish only). On land there are elk, deer, cougar, bobcat, Bighorn sheep and mountain goats. Bald and golden eagles are frequently seen soaring near the river's edge.

ID, Hells Canyon NRA, Hells Gate and Winchester State Parks

Nearby camping is also available at Winchester State Park. One of the few developed campgrounds in the area that is open year-round. Winchester has 75 sites with electical hookups, a shower house, and camping "yurts". A yurt is a circular domed tent 20 feet in diameter with a plywood floor, hardwood sides and a clear plexiglass skylight. This fully insulated shelter is designed to withstand high winds and snow. It has a lockable wood door and windows with screens and storm flaps. Campers should bring their own sleeping bags and cooking gear. The park yurts rent for $30 per night.