Hells Canyon National Recreation Area: Beyond Deep Gorges
As the deepest river gorge in North America, Hells Canyon offers more than just breathtaking views. It’s a must-see for anyone making a list of things to do in Idaho. The Snake River winds its way through the canyon, providing thrilling white-water rafting and world-class fishing. The area is also rich in historical and cultural sites, with ancient petroglyphs and remnants of early settler’s homesteads. Hiking trails and viewpoints along the canyon rim offer panoramic views of this dramatic landscape.
Hells Canyon History
The history of Hells Canyon is as deep and varied as the gorge itself. Human habitation in the area dates back over 7,000 years, with the Nez Perce, Shoshone, and Bannock tribes among the earliest known inhabitants. These indigenous peoples lived in harmony with the land, utilizing the canyon’s abundant resources for fishing, hunting, and gathering. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the canyon saw an influx of miners and homesteaders, drawn by the promise of gold and the allure of a new life in the rugged West. The remains of their cabins and mines, along with the ancient petroglyphs etched into the rocks, tell the story of a land shaped by human hands and spirits across millennia.
Today, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vast, untouched wilderness. The deep, green waters of the Snake River contrast sharply with the sheer, craggy walls of the canyon, creating a visual spectacle that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling. Whether you’re navigating the rapids of the Snake River, exploring the remnants of a bygone era, or simply soaking in the silence and grandeur from a canyon overlook, Hells Canyon offers an unparalleled experience, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Idaho.
Fun Facts About Hells Canyon
- Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America, deeper than the Grand Canyon, with depths reaching over 7,900 feet.
- The canyon was carved by the wild and powerful Snake River, which flows more than 1,000 miles from Wyoming to the Columbia River.
- It is home to ancient petroglyphs and historical remnants from early Native American tribes and later settlers.
- The area supports a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and cougars.
- The area exhibits a wide range of climates from alpine to desert, creating diverse habitats.
- As a recreational paradise, Hells Canyon is popular for activities such as whitewater rafting, fishing, hiking, and jet boating.
- Hells Canyon offers panoramic views of the canyon and surrounding wilderness from the Heavens Gate Lookout.
- As one of the most remote areas in the United States, Hells Canyon offers a true wilderness experience.
- The canyon is home to several endangered species, including Chinook salmon and steelhead trout.
Learn More
To learn more, visit the USDA Forest Service, where you’ll find all the resources you need to plan the perfect visit. There, you’ll find a wealth of information about recreation area sections, camping, fishing, hiking, and more. Armed with this information, you’ll be ready to explore this beautiful place to visit in Idaho.
Idaho’s Mammoth Cave
Planning a trip to Idaho? Don’t forget to put Idaho’s Mammoth Cave at the top of your list. As one of the most popular things to do in Idaho, you can explore a unique and awe-inspiring underground landscape at your own personal pace with our self-guided tours. In addition to the cave, there are two privately owned museums of natural history on-site, the Shoshone Bird Museum and the Richard Arthur Olsen Museum featuring a wealth of exhibits that has earned the nickname “The Smithsonian of the Desert,” making it an unforgettable stop for the whole family.
