Welcome to the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area managed by the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Hugging 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. The deepest river gorge in North America. Scenic vistas that rival any on the continent. World-class whitewater boating. Spectacular mountain peaks. Vast reaches of remote wilderness. Exciting recreational opportunities. Diverse and abundant wildlife. Artifacts from prehistoric tribes and rustic remains of early miners and settlers...Hells Canyon National Recreation Area truly offers something for everyone, and much to remember. We know you will enjoy Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, whether you choose to explore by road, trail, or boat.

Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the opportunity to spot creatures both great and small-from the tiny pika to cougars, bobcats, bears, elk, deer, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep-who claim homes in Hells Canyon's lush forests and craggy ridges. Many species of fish thrive in the waters of the Snake River.

Listen...to the footsteps left by Hells Canyon residents of ages past. Traces of human existence in Hells Canyon date back thousands of years-from prehistoric Native American tribes, Chief Joseph's band of the Nez Perce Indians, to the 1860's gold miners and late 1800's homesteaders. Today, Indian pictographs and petroglyphs, as well as the remains of settlers' homes, dot the landscape. Historical and archaeological sites can be enjoyed, but are fragile, irreplaceable, and protected by federal law. Please leave them for others to discover.

By any measure, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is immense. First-time visitors may wish to contact a Forest Service office for help in planning a visit.

HERE ARE SOME CHOICES TO HELP GET YOU STARTED:

• LOCAL COMMUNITIES
• THE WALLOWA MOUNTAINS VISITOR CENTER
• THE WALLOWA MOUNTAIN LOOP ROAD
• THE HAT POINT ROAD (Forest Road 4240)
• THE IMNAHA RIVER ROAD
• THE SNAKE RIVER ROAD
• HEAVENS GATE OVERLOOK
• THE PITTSBURG LANDING ROAD (Forest Road 493)
• THE DUG BAR ROAD

The landscape of Hells Canyon is a study in contrast, from the steep desert like lower slopes and sandbars edging the Snake River, to the rugged peaks and alpine lakes of the majestic Seven Devils Mountains towering almost 8,000 feet above. Look...across the ever-changing horizon. Enjoy spectacular vistas from the edge of this great abyss at Hat Point, Heavens Gate, or Hells Canyon overlook. Travel deep into the Hells Canyon gorge along the Snake River. Discover the expansive bench country between rim and river where clear streams meander through forest and meadow. Look...for abundant wildflowers in the canyon during the early spring, or watch miniature high mountain wildflowers show their color in the warm summer months.

The river holds both world-class whitewater and tranquil stretches of glass-smooth water. Whether you seek the adventure of a whitewater raft trip or the excitement of a powerboat excursion, you'll find both day and overnight trips offered by outfitters to suit your needs. If you prefer the challenge of captaining your own watercraft, contact the National Recreation Area office in Clarkston, WA, for permit requirements and other information. Feel...the cool, relaxing evening breeze at one of nineteen rustic campsites. You're also welcome to pick a favorite spot most anywhere to camp. Feel...the quiet solitude of the Hells Canyon Wilderness. Imagine a time without cars, or roads, a time of self-reliance and adventure. You'll find both in the Hells Canyon Wilderness. Feel...the earth move beneath your feet as you journey over almost 900 miles of trails ranging from easiest to most difficult. Before planning a trip check at any Forest Service office on trail conditions, acceptable means of travel, and specific regulations for the wilderness area. Feel...the exhilaration of snowmobiling or cross-country skiing. Try our groomed trails or designated play areas. Stable winter weather ensures powder snow and family fun.