Hells Canyon

River Stats

Hells Canyon is the deepest canyon in North America, and as one imagines the bottom of a big canyon should be, this one is filled with thrilling whitewater, arguably some of the biggest rapids in the Pacific Northwest.  The Nez Pearce have a legend which claims “Coyote dug Hells Canyon with a big stick to protect their ancestors.” Anyone who has experienced the rugged rock walls and grassy slopes rising from the edges of the surging whitewater can understand why the indigenous people believed this was a remote and protected local. 

Between the whitewater of Hells Canyon, there's plenty of time to kick back and marvel at the snow-capped peaks that tower more than a mile above this unbelievably deep gorge, deeper than the Grand Canyon of the Colorado. Staring up one sees below the snow line far above the mountainsides are covered in golden grass and pine forest and we commonly see soaring eagles, ambling bears or wild mountain goats.

When you arrive in camp the fun in Hells Canyon is often just beginning.  After a day crashing through whitewater arrival in camp means it is time to stretch legs with a great hike up into the hidden reaches of the canyon or to spend some time casting in the river for bass, trout, or possibly even an enormous Snake River sturgeon.

So come to Idaho and explore one of the most rugged and awe-inspiring locations in North America as you float through the bottom of Hells Canyon on the Snake River.

Outfitters

  • Hells Canyon Raft

    Hells Canyon Raft

    Since 1983, our multi-day river trips have set the bar.  Hells Canyon, the Snake River 3-5 day trips, and the beautiful Salmon River 4-5 day trips.  Rafting, hiking, fishing, camping Adventures.  Ages 5-100.  

  • ROW Adventures

    ROW Adventures

    ROW Adventures has been Idaho's premier rafting outfitter since 1979

  • Hells Canyon Adventures

    Hells Canyon Adventures

     Hells Canyon Adventures offers 1 & 2 Day Rafting Trips on the Snake River in Hells Canyon 

  • America's Rafting Company

    America's Rafting Company

    3-5 day all-inclusive river adventures on the best trip in Idaho. Whitewater raft, fish, swim, hike, kayak, camp and enjoy scratch-made restaurant-quality food. Novice to expert, we will take care of you and customize the trip to your liking.

  • Winding Waters River Expeditions

    Winding Waters River Expeditions

     We’re proud to offer world class, multi-day, expedition style, guided whitewater rafting and fishing adventures on the Salmon River, Snake River through Hells Canyon, and the Grande Ronde River. All of our trips are fully guided and require no previous whitewater rafting experience. We look forward to planning your next adventure.

  • Minam Store Outfitters

    Minam Store Outfitters

    Rafting, fly fishing, and chukar hunts on the Wallowa, Grande Ronde, Snake River through Hells Canyon, and the Lower Salmon River.  We don't cut corners.

  • Momentum River Expeditions

    Momentum River Expeditions

    Join us for a Salmon River trip or a Snake River through Hells Canyon expedition with comfortable and innovative wilderness camping, local and organic meals, the attention to detail & hospitality we are known for, and one of the most experienced (and friendly) guide staff’s in the world. We also offer group and charter expeditions too. 

  • OARS

    OARS

    Join OARS for a wild & scenic river adventure in Idaho

  • Idaho Afloat

    Idaho Afloat

    When you raft Idaho with us, you can expect the ride of a lifetime.