Hells Canyon Adventures
Experience Hells Canyon from the South Entrance
Hells Canyon Adventures
Jet Boat Tours from Hells Canyon Dam
This adventure through the Wild River Section features the biggest rapids on the river, the deepest depths of the canyon, and the most jaw-dropping scenery transitions throughout — you can expect to see rock walls, desert grasslands, and alpine forests on the same trip. Listen to our captains as they regale you with stories about the early Native Americans who inhabited this area and the ranching families that called Hells Canyon home. Keep your eyes open for wildlife such as bald eagles, black bears, and bighorn sheep. Lunch included.
This is the adventure for anyone who wants to experience the Wild Section (BEST PART) of Hells Canyon in one day
- Hells Canyon Dam Visitor Center and Boat Ramp
- 11am or Noon to 4:30 - 5:30pm
- April - September
Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour Includes:
- HCA launches adventures from both the south entrance of Hells Canyon and Pittsburg Landing, straight into the Wild Section of the Snake River, considered the best portion of Hells Canyon (the heart of the canyon). From the moment you step on our boat, you’ll be in some of the most pristine country in the West.
- Exciting whitewater runs mixed with smooth cruising and jaw-dropping scenery
- HCA has been running Hells Canyon for 50 years, and we know every rapid, swimming spot, and historical area in the canyon. We know your time is important, so each trip is jam-packed with information and opportunities for fun and reconnection.
- Outstanding wildlife viewing—bighorn sheep and bald eagles are common, with chances to spot bears, otters, and osprey
- Historic sites like Sheep Creek, Kirkwood and many more .
- Fresh, delicious riverside lunch with plenty of drinks included
Let's Book Your Adventure
Your adventure with HCA and S & S River Outfitters is just a click away. Whether you’re chasing whitewater, wildlife, history, or pure wilderness relaxation, we’ll take care of the details—you just bring your sense of adventure.
Give us a Call: (208) 628-3733 or 1 (800) 422-3568
Full Day Hells Canyon Tour | HC Dam to Kirkwood
This adventure through the Wild River Section features the biggest rapids on the river, the deepest depths of the canyon, and the most jaw-dropping scenery transitions throughout — you can expect to see rock walls, desert grasslands, and alpine forests on the same trip. Listen to our captains as they regale you with stories about the early Native Americans who inhabited this area and the ranching families that called Hells Canyon home. Keep your eyes open for wildlife such as bald eagles, black bears, and bighorn sheep. Lunch included.
START AND RETURN TIMES
Start boarding: 10:00 AM Pacific Time or 11:00 AM Mountain Time | Return: Approximately 5 to 6 Hours
Departs from Hells Canyon Creek Visitors Center and Launch Site, 66 miles round trip.
$219 per adult | $119 per child (3-12)
Full Day Tour - Pittsburg Landing
Adventure through the Wild River Section that features the biggest rapids, the deepest depths, and the most jaw-dropping scenery. Meet your jet boat and captain at Pitts burg Landing boat ramp 17 Miles from White Bird Idaho at 10:30am MT. You will be back around 3:30 to 4:00pm, 70 miles round trip. A nice lunch and drinks are provided.
$219 per adult | $119 per child (3-12)
Half Day to Sheep Creek - HC DAM
This adventure is perfect for those who want to experience the wild section of Hells Canyon in the shortest amount of time. 11:00AM Pacific Time or Noon Mountain Time Return approximately 3 Hours. Departs from Hells Canyon Creek Visitors Center and Launch Site, 36 miles round trip.
$189 per adult | $109 per child (3-12)
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING
Common Questions
Find the Answers Before Your Journey
Are the boats crowded
Nope—not on our watch! 😄 Our jet boats offer plenty of seating, and we never pack them to capacity. We run multiple boats and intentionally limit guest numbers, so everyone has room, enjoy the views, and ride in comfort. Think relaxed adventure, not sardine style.
How hot is it on the boat in summer?
Hells Canyon creates unique weather due to the depth of the canyon so temps can vary significantly during the day. The water keeps the boats cooler along with much of the boats being covered for shade creates for very comfortable trips. On hot days our captains are pros at keeping things cool… often by adding a little splash of river fun (unless you’d rather stay dry—just let your captain know, no promises!). With open sides and an open front, there’s always a refreshing breeze flowing through, even on those 100°+ Idaho summer days it’s comfortable, and fun guaranteed! You will always have plenty of opportunity for swimming and playing in the river. Our Salmon River trips are always around 10 degrees cooler than Hells Canyon.
Am I going to be stuck on the boat with no rest stops?
We make regular stops along the way, so there’s no need to “hold it.” And if nature calls urgently, the captain and crew know the river like the back of their hand. We can pull over for a quick pit stop and get you right back to the adventure—stress-free and smiling. 😄
Are lunch and drinks included?
You bet—and it’s one of the highlights! 😋 We keep you well fueled with plenty drinks and a freshly made deli-style lunch complete with chips, a cookie.
Even better, where you eat is part of the adventure:
On our Salmon River tours, lunch is enjoyed right on a beautiful river beach or at China Bar Lodge.
In Hells Canyon, we stop for lunch at the historic Sheep Creek Cabin.
Great food, incredible scenery, and zero effort on your part—just sit back, relax, and enjoy the moment.
What are the chances of seeing wildlife?
Absolutely—wildlife sightings are basically guaranteed! 🐏🦅 Along the river, you’ll most often spot bighorn sheep and bald eagles, and if you’re lucky, you might catch glimpses of bears, otters, or osprey.
We love aiming for the ultimate “hat trick” of sheep, eagles, and bears—and more often than not, the river delivers. While we can’t promise exactly what you’ll see, one thing’s for sure: Idaho’s wilderness is full of unforgettable encounters, and your camera is going to thank you. 📸🌲
Can I bring a camera or phone?
Absolutely—capture every splash and scenic moment! 📸 We love when guests bring cameras or phones but remember this is a full-on jet boat adventure, so things can get wet. We highly recommend a waterproof case and keeping it securely attached to the handle.
We encourage you to snap away, but safety comes first—so while your photos can be epic, we can’t guarantee your device will stay bone-dry or dropped in the river.
What should I wear?
Keep it casual, comfy, and adventure-ready! 😎
Check the weather first! Be prepared for whatever Idaho throws at you—sun, wind, or a sudden splash of river water.
Summer days: Shorts, a t-shirt, and a hat are perfect.
Cooler days: Long pants and a light waterproof jacket will keep you cozy.
Swimming suits: Great for a splash, but we recommend wearing clothes over them.
Your adventure might include swimming, beach time, and hikes to historic sites, so wear layers and shoes that can handle a little exploring. And don’t forget—every passenger wears a life vest during the bigger whitewater sections, keeping safety and fun at the forefront! 🦺