Hells Gate State Park

Parks › Idaho › Hells Gate (ID)

Quick Facts

Hells Gate State Park

Idaho

(208) 799-5015

Map Directions

Things To Do

Overview

Hells Gate State Park is the gateway to both Idaho's Lewis and Clark country and to Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America. Shady campsites along the Snake River make comfortable base-camps for exploration of the surrounding area. Jet boat excursions into Hells Canyon leave on a regular basis from the park's docks. The Nez Perce National Historic Park is only 30 minutes away. A wide choice of restaurants and shopping are just minutes away, in nearby Lewiston Idaho.

Many miles upriver from Hells Gate State Park, the Snake River winds through Hells Canyon, one of the deepest gorges in North America. This wild and spectacular area is best visited by boat; there are no roads leading through the canyon. Old homesteads, long-forgotten prospector cabins, and Native American petroglyphs offer a fascinating human story in the midst of the spectacular scenery.

Outfitters offer jet boat trips into the canyon, several departing right from the park's docks. Half day, full day, dinner and overnight trips are available. For breathtaking excitement, you can also choose raft or dory float trips through this magnificent river corridor. Here are links to Hells Canyon outfitter pages (in no particular order).

Map of Hells Gate (ID)

Latitude, Longitude: 46.369312, -117.054244

READ MORE

Activities

  • Boating

    Ramps , Marina , Jet boat rides , Docks

  • Bicycling

    The area offers great opportunities for biking.

  • Camping

    Electricity, Water, Max 60' Space, Firewood. Showers, Flush Toilets, Group Shelter, Camp Store, Dump Station

  • Climbing

    Areas nearby provide great climbing opportunities.

  • Fishing

    The park is a wonderful place for fishing.

  • Hiking

    Great hiking trails located in/around the park.

  • Historic Sites

    Programs , Education Center

  • Horseback Riding

    Great trails for horse back riding.

  • Picnicking

    There are several wonderful places to picnic.

  • Water Sports

    Swimming, boating and fishing.

Directions

Driving

When traveling from the North, South, or East to Lewiston, take US 12 into Lewiston, crossing the Clearwater River Bridge. Follow the signs for US 12 West through Lewiston to Snake River Ave. Turn right on to Snake River Ave and follow the signs for Hells Gate State Park. When traveling from the West take US 12 through Clarkston and across the Snake River Bridge to Lewiston. Turn right on Snake River Ave immediately after reaching the Idaho side of the bridge.

Phone Numbers

Primary

(208) 799-5015

Campground reservations

(888) 922-6743

Links