Hells Canyon Adventure Near Lewiston, Idaho
Explore the Wild Snake River, Viewing Wildlife and Learning History
Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
Located just south of Lewiston, Idaho, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, established in 1975, is a place of adventure and intrigue. As Idaho's Seven Devils Mountain Range rises to over 9,000 feet, the contrasting canyon, drops to 800 feet at the river level. Lewiston is considered the "gateway to Hells Canyon." Visitors to the area can enjoy a diversity of activities including backpacking, horseback riding, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, hunting, fishing and many more.
Snake River
Hells Canyon creates the natural boundary between the states of Oregon and Idaho, as the Snake River carves its way through the canyon. 67.5 miles of the Snake River are designated as National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, preserving the river’s free-flowing integrity. The section of the river between the Hells Canyon Dam north to Upper Pittsburg Landing has been selected as “wild” because of its inaccessibility except by trail and “primitive shorelines.” Pittsburg Campground is one of the only developed campgrounds along this part of the Snake River. This part of the river can be floated or explored by powerboat. Floating the river can take up to several days yet can be an exciting way to explore the depths of the canyon. Visitors also participate in whitewater rafting on the Snake River. The degrees of the river vary from Class II to Class IV.
Wildlife Within the Canyon
Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is inhabited by a variety of big game, fish and waterfowl. Bear, cougars, bobcat, deer, and elk can be found throughout the canyon. Bighorn sheep and mountain goats climb precariously along the cliffs of the canyon. River otter and Canada geese take advantage of the waters of the Snake River. Peregrine falcon and chukar fly above, watching the sites along the riverbanks. Fish, such as Steelhead, Chinook and Sockeye Salmon, Rainbow trout, bass and catfish, swim beneath the water’s surface. The Giant White Sturgeon is protected in these waters, designated catch and release only. Watch out for rattlesnakes and poison ivy along the riverbanks.
Historical Endeavors
The history of Hells Canyon dates back to prehistoric times. Museums in the area contain historic and prehistoric artifacts from the surround areas. Proof of early canyon inhabitants can be found within the canyon, as ancient petroglyphs can be seen along the river cliffs. Nez Perce Indian history and the Lewis and Clark expedition are among the most prevalent historical subjects in the Hells Canyon area. Remains of settlers' homes can be see in and around the canyon. Visit the Kirkwood Historic Ranch and Cache Creek Ranch, to explore what life in the canyon was like during the 1930s.
