The Park Today
April 1, 2009
March exited like a lion not a lamb, but April promises more mellow weather for our users. People aren’t the only creatures that use Hells Gate. Migratory birds are still passing through and now is the time to watch for Western grebes and trumpeter swans using our calm waters as resting points for their long trip north. The mule deer will be birthing fawns soon, but be careful, just because you may find a fawn don’t think it has been abandoned. Leave it alone and the mother will be back.
Hells Gate is playing host to several events in April.
The Nez Perce County Sheriffs Mounted Posse is sponsoring their annual fund raising ride on April 5. About 150 participants will ride the trails at Hells Gate. The ride begins at 8 am and lasts until 4 pm. The Twin River Cyclists are holding the 2009 version of the Devil’s Slide trail race on April 19. Three categories of racers will pedal around Hells Gate on a six mile course. Last year almost 60 riders took the challenge. If you need more information call Carol Ellis at 208 746 2844 or use their website at www.twinrivercyclists.org.
The last major event being held at Hells Gate this year will be the 32nd annual Seaport River Run on April 25th. Hells Gate has been the finish line for this event for 31 of those 32 years. Over 1000 runners start at Swallows Park in Clarkston and make their way to Hells Gate along the miles of bike paths that connect the two cities. More information can be found at www.cityoflewiston.org or by calling 208 746-2313.
Camping is in full swing with two camp loops open for use. The spring time weather is ideal for those early camp trips, with campfires to keep warm by and marshmallows to toast. Bring your bikes and your kites and have a wonderful visit.
Gateway to Hells Canyon and Idaho's Lewis and Clark Country
Quiet and grassy campsites along the shores of the Snake River await campers to Hells Gate State Park , situated at the lowest elevation in the entire state of Idaho. At just 733 feet above sea level, the low elevation and the long season of warm weather give rise to Lewiston’s reputation as “Idaho’s Banana Belt.”
A large beach and day-use area with a canopy of shade trees and miles of hiking, biking, and horseback trails make the park a popular destination for day visitors as well as campers. A covered shelter and group-use area can accommodate 300 people and may be reserved for family outings, weddings, club meetings or company picnics.
Experience Hells Canyon
Many miles upriver from Hells Gate State Park, the Snake River winds through Hells Canyon, one of the deepest gorges in North America. This wild and spectacular area is best visited by boat; there are no roads leading through the canyon. Old homesteads, long-forgotten prospector cabins, and Native American petroglyphs offer a fascinating human story in the midst of the spectacular scenery.
Outfitters offer jet boat trips into the canyon, several departing right from the park’s docks. Half day, full day, dinner and overnight trips are available. For breathtaking excitement, you can also choose raft or dory float trips through this magnificent river corridor. Here are links to Hells Canyon outfitter pages (in no particular order).
Lewis and Clark Discovery Center
The Lewis and Clark Discovery Center features indoor educational displays, a two acre outdoor interpretive plaza along the banks of the Snake River and a beautiful moving stream with sculptures by Artist Rip Caswell. See an original 32 minute film produced From the mountains to the sea; Lewis and Clark in Idaho. Don't miss the Lewis and Clark gift shop while you're at the center.
Marina Access and Boating
The Snake River is perfect for personal watercraft, jet boats, power boats and water skiing. Hells Gate Marina offers more than 100 slips on a daily to yearly basis with boat fuel and moorage, as well as a public boat launch, convenience store, restrooms and plenty of parking. Boat rentals are also available. Contact the Hells Canyon Resort for additional information.
Fishing and Wildlife
Anglers come from all around to enjoy the famous steelhead runs of the Snake, Salmon and Clearwater rivers. The steelhead season usually runs through the fall and winter. Smallmouth bass, catfish, trout and sturgeon provide excitement in the spring and summer. Salmon fishing is occasionally available--the Idaho Department of Fish and Game each year based on the number of fish returning from the ocean.
Pheasant, quail, chukar, hawks, geese, ducks, owls and cottontail rabbits are common residents. Eagles, pelicans, herons, swans, deer, otter and even bighorn sheep are known to visit.
The Nez Perce National Historic Park
The Nez Perce National Historic Park is just a short drive from Hells Gate, with fascinating displays of artifacts and a glimpse of the traditional life of the Nez Perce people.
Lewis and Clark
Lewis and Clark traveled through this area during their journey to discover an inland waterway to the Pacific Ocean. The Lewis and Clark Discovery Center is located in Hells Gate State Park featuring indoor and outdoor displays and a film describing the journey of Lewis and Clark through Idaho. FAQ's
Jack O'Connor Hunting Heritage and Education Center
The center displays the hunting trophies of outdoor writer and conservatinist Jack O'Connor and tells the story of American's hunting heritage.
http://www.jack-oconnor.org/
1. How can I arrange a trip into Hells Canyon?
- There are several outfitters in the Lewiston area offering trips. You can depart right from the park's marina. Just ask at the office when you arrive.