At the confluence of the Clearwater and Snake Rivers, Lewiston, Idaho and Clarkston, Washington, are the lowest elevation points in the region at only 738 feet above sea level. Visitors to the valley have access to the best whitewater and the best white sand beaches around. Take a guided jet boat or rafting tour on the Snake River deep into Hells Canyon, North America’s Deepest River Gorge.
Unlike the Grand Canyon, you can’t just drive to the edge of Hells Canyon and look in. Hells Canyon can most conveniently be reached via a guided jet boat tour or raft. And, when your adventure originates in the Jet Boat Capital of the World, you’re sure to have an experience like no other. Your tour guides will regale you with tales of the native Nez Perce Indians, steamboats sinking and mining communities. They’ll point out petroglyphs, blue heron, eagles and big horn sheep. Explore the white sand beaches, play in the tepid water, eat lunch and walk through a historical museum at Kirkwood Historical Ranch.
Outfitters offer rafting trips of all kinds for all ages and abilities from spring through the end of summer. Families and whitewater seekers hit the Snake River on three to seven day runs through Hells Canyon. Your guide will take care of everything on your trip. They row the rafts or lead guests who paddle their own and provide tents and waterproof gear bags. You will enjoy home-cooked meals, including salads made from fresh fruits and vegetables and Dutch-oven baked breads and desserts. At the end of the day as the sun sets in the canyon, gather around a campfire with your fellow paddlers.
Guided jet boat and rafting tours leave from the Lewis-Clark Valley seasonally. Hells Canyon, though a nationally famous run, has fairly easy whitewater. Be sure to make reservations in advance with one of the professional guides.
The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area hugs the borders of northeastern Oregon and western Idaho. This national showcase holds 652,488 acres of beauty and adventure, where you can let your senses run as wild as the landscape. Hells Canyon truly offers something for everyone, and much to remember. Find your guide and start planning your once-in-a-lifetime Hells Canyon adventure at visitlcvalley.com.
