Hells Gate State Park
Gateway to North America’s Deepest Gorge
Hells Gate State Park sits on the Snake River at the entrance to Hells Canyon—North America’s deepest river gorge, plunging over 7,900 feet from He Devil Peak to the river below. Just 4 miles south of Lewiston, this 960-acre park serves as the primary launching point for jet boat adventures into the canyon while offering year-round camping, a marina, and the Lewis & Clark Discovery Center.
🌡️ Mildest climate in Idaho! The Lewiston-Clarkston Valley enjoys the state’s longest recreation season, with average highs of 90°F+ in summer and mild winters. The park is open year-round.
Lewis & Clark Discovery Center
The park’s centerpiece museum features interpretive exhibits about the Corps of Discovery and the Nez Perce Tribe, a two-acre outdoor plaza along the Snake River, and a 32-minute film chronicling the Lewis & Clark expedition through this region. The Nez Perce people have inhabited this confluence area for over 11,000 years.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | Within the park, overlooking Snake River |
| 🎬 Film | 32-minute documentary (free with entry) |
| 🕐 Hours | Closed Wednesdays (since Nov 2025) |
| 💰 Admission | Included with park entry fee |
Jet Boat Tours into Hells Canyon
Hells Gate is the premier departure point for jet boat excursions into Hells Canyon. Multiple operators launch from the Hells Gate Marina, offering half-day to multi-day adventures through Class III-IV whitewater rapids, past ancient petroglyphs, abandoned homesteads, and wildlife including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and bald eagles.
Tour Options
| Tour Type | Duration | Season | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half-Day Tour | 3-4 hours | May–Sept | Introductory canyon exploration |
| Full-Day Tour | 6-8 hours | May–Sept | Deep canyon, whitewater, lunch included |
| Multi-Day Tour | 2-3 days | May–Sept | Overnight riverside camping, fishing |
| Private Powerboat | Self-guided | Year-round | Permit required (reserve on Recreation.gov) |
Camping
Over 80 quiet, grassy campsites are nestled along the Snake River shores, with mature shade trees and mountain views.
| Type | Sites | Cost/Night | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 50+ | $12–$21 | Picnic table, fire ring, shade |
| Full Hookup | 30+ | $24–$31 | Electric, water, sewer (up to 72ft RV) |
| Cabins | Available | $50–$60 | Pet-friendly options (Tammany & Sacagawea) |
Season: March–November (mild climate extends the season). Daily vehicle entry fee: $7–$14. Reserve at Idaho State Parks or call 1-888-922-6743.
Marina & Water Activities
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛵ Marina Slips | 100+ slips, year-round moorage |
| 🚤 Boat Launch | Public ramp, ample parking |
| 🏖️ Swimming | Sandy beach on the Snake River |
| 🎣 Fishing | Steelhead, smallmouth bass, sturgeon, catfish |
| 🛶 Rentals | Kayaks, paddleboards available nearby |
Trails & Recreation
The park features a 4-mile paved pathway perfect for biking, walking, and inline skating along the river, plus equestrian trails and an archery range.
Can I take a jet boat tour from the park?
Yes! Hells Gate is the primary departure point for jet boat excursions into Hells Canyon. Several operators offer tours from the marina, ranging from half-day to multi-day adventures. Book in advance for summer weekends.
Do I need a permit for my own boat?
Yes, a permit is required for powerboating on the Wild and Scenic Snake River within Hells Canyon. During peak season (Memorial Day weekend–Sept 10), reserve through Recreation.gov. Off-season permits are self-issue at boat launches.
Are pets allowed in the cabins?
Pets are allowed in the Tammany and Sacagawea cabins specifically. They must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
What makes Hells Canyon special?
Hells Canyon is North America’s deepest river gorge—deeper than the Grand Canyon. The canyon plunges over 7,900 feet from the summit of He Devil Peak to the Snake River. It harbors diverse wildlife including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, black bears, and over 200 bird species.
Explore More Idaho State Parks
Hells Gate State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Idaho. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Idaho guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Insider Tips
Snake River access: Hells Gate is the gateway to Hells Canyon — the deepest river gorge in North America (7,993 feet). Pro tip: Jet boat tours up the Snake River into Hells Canyon depart from nearby Lewiston. Climate: Lewiston-Clarkston valley is Idaho’s warmest area — the “Banana Belt.”
Best Time to Visit
Spring: Wildflowers and steelhead fishing. Summer: Jet boat tours and river activities. Fall: Chinook salmon migration. Winter: Mild temperatures for Idaho.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hells Canyon deeper than the Grand Canyon?
Yes. Hells Canyon on the Snake River reaches a depth of 7,993 feet — over 2,000 feet deeper than the Grand Canyon. It straddles the Idaho-Oregon border and is accessible by jet boat, raft, or rugged backcountry trails. Hells Gate State Park is the primary gateway.
