Idaho is home to some pretty spectacular landscapes. But, did you know it is also home to the deepest river gorge in North America? Hells Canyon is one of the most incredible natural features in the Gem State and also one of the most underrated. This National Recreation Area sits along the Oregon and Idaho state line and offers more than 652,000 acres of wilderness. It’s one place that is truly breathtaking.
You’ve likely heard of Hells Canyon National Recreation Area but have you ever been? Do you know how spectacular and grand this area truly is? From any angle, it’s very impressive.
A fun fact about Hells Canyon is it is not a recognized geographic place. It is generally accepted that the canyon begins 90 miles south of Lewiston, Idaho, and travels 40 miles south to Oxbow, Oregon.
Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America. The canyon is carved by the beautiful Snake River and many of the rocks that you see in the canyon came from underwater volcanoes millions of years ago.
The canyon is 10-miles wide and 7,913-feet deep. He Devil Mountain, which is the highest point in the canyon and the highest peak in the Seven Devils Mountains, is 9,393-feet tall. To put this into perspective, at its deepest point, the Grand Canyon is only 6,000-feet deep.
People have lived in Hells Canyon for thousands of years. A rock shelter at Bernard Creek is estimated to be 7,100 years old. A Clovis point near the south end of the canyon provides evidence of humans in the area more than 15,000 years ago.
Located in Imnaha, Oregon, this overlook not only gives you the most mesmerizing views of the canyon, but it comes complete with interpretive signs, picnic areas, vault toilets, and more. It’s definitely one stop you won’t want to miss.
There are also multiple hiking trails that will help you explore this wilderness area and see all that it has to offer.
The Mirror Lake Trail is located near Riggins and begins at the Seven Devils Campground. This trail features a difficult climb but is less than 2-miles long and will take you to some awe-inspiring views.
No matter if you visit the overlooks, hike, or enjoy the area another way, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is one place in Idaho that you’ll want to add to your bucket list. Its size, beauty, and history are well worth exploring.
Have you visited Hells Canyon National Recreation Area before? Did you know this canyon was deeper than the Grand Canyon? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. You can also visit the Forest Service’s website for more information on this area and to help you plan your upcoming trip.
