Wallowa County, Oregon
Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
National recreation area
The canyon forms the Oregon-Idaho border, managed largely by the Forest Service. Rim viewpoints, jet boat tours from the Oregon side and rugged trails access the gorge.
Why Visit
Sheer scale, bighorn sheep, jet boat trips and the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway make it unlike any other corner of Oregon.
Amenities & Facilities
- Rim viewpoints
- Jet boat launches
- Primitive camping
- Trailheads
Things to Do
- Drive the Hells Canyon Overlook road
- Take a jet boat from Lewiston or Pittsburg Landing
- Camp at Hat Point
- Look for bighorn sheep
Best For
Adventurous travelers with time to reach a remote corner of the state.
Parking & Visiting
Parking is available in designated lots at most trailheads and visitor areas. Fees, permits, hours and seasonal closures change, so confirm current details with Oregon State Parks, the Forest Service or the park's managing agency before visiting.
Nearby Communities
- Joseph
- Imnaha
- Enterprise
Related Attractions
- Hat Point
- Snake River
- Wallowa Mountains
- Imnaha River
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive into Hells Canyon?
Rim roads such as Hat Point reach overlooks, but the river itself is reached mainly by jet boat or on foot. Access roads are rough and remote.
Is Hells Canyon deeper than the Grand Canyon?
By the measure from rim to river, yes: Hells Canyon is about 8,000 feet deep, deeper than the Grand Canyon.
Seasonal Note
Trail conditions, beach staffing, boat rentals and road access change with the season. Confirm current hours and closures with the managing agency before you travel, especially in winter and early spring.
