Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America, beckons adventure-seekers with its thrilling Yellow Jet Boat Tour to Kirkwood on the Snake River. This 5-hour excursion immerses guests in the region’s rugged beauty, showcasing towering rock walls, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Travelers can expect an exhilarating ride, mouthwatering meals, and knowledgeable guides – but the true allure lies in the opportunity to explore one of America’s most captivating natural wonders. What secrets does Hells Canyon hold?
Key Points
- A 5-hour jet boat tour exploring the largest rapids on the Snake River in Hells Canyon, offering scenic views of rock walls, grasslands, and forests.
- Opportunities to spot wildlife like bald eagles, black bears, deer, and bighorn sheep during the tour.
- Buffet lunch provided at the historic Sheep Creek or Kirkwood Ranch along the tour route.
- The tour departs from the Hells Canyon Creek Visitor Center and Launch Site, located 1 mile below Hells Canyon Dam.
- The tour is priced starting at $206 per person and is non-refundable, with positive customer reviews indicating an unforgettable adventure.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour offers a 5-hour adventure through the Wild River Section of Hells Canyon on the Snake River.
Priced from $206.00 per person, this non-refundable tour explores the largest water rapids on the Snake River.
Participants can expect stunning views of rock walls, desert grasslands, and alpine forests, with the chance to spot wildlife like bald eagles, black bears, deer, and bighorn sheep.
The tour includes a buffet lunch at Sheep Creek or Kirkwood Historic Ranch.
Availability varies, so customers should check for starting times.
Looking for more options in Riggins Idaho? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Experience Highlights
This jet boat adventure takes participants through the Wild River Section of Hells Canyon on the Snake River, where they’ll encounter the largest water rapids on the waterway.
Along the way, guests will marvel at the scenic views of the rugged rock walls, desert grasslands, and alpine forests.
Guests marvel at the scenic views of rugged rock walls, desert grasslands, and alpine forests along the way.
Wildlife spotting opportunities include bald eagles, black bears, deer, and bighorn sheep.
The tour also provides insight into the early Native American and ranching history of the region.
Guests will enjoy a buffet lunch at either Sheep Creek or the Kirkwood Historic Ranch.
Tour Logistics
Participants must drive to the meeting point at the Hells Canyon Creek Visitor Center and Launch Site, located 1 mile below the Hells Canyon Dam on the Oregon side.
Parking is available at the launch site, but no shuttle service is provided – guests are responsible for their own transportation to the starting location.
The tour covers a total distance of 54 miles round trip on the Snake River.
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The meeting point is the Hells Canyon Creek Visitor Center and Launch Site.
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Parking is available at the launch site.
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No shuttle service is provided; participants must drive to the meeting point.
What’s Included and What to Bring
The Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour includes live commentary, a buffet lunch, water/lemonade, a local guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
The Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour includes live commentary, a buffet lunch, water/lemonade, a local guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Guests should bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, water, rain gear, water shoes, cash, and a reusable water bottle.
Waterproof bags are also recommended. Sandals, flip-flops, pets, and smoking aren’t allowed.
The tour operator may cancel due to safety concerns or uncontrollable circumstances like water levels.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Although the tour operator may cancel the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour due to safety concerns or uncontrollable circumstances like water levels, the total distance of the round trip is 54 miles.
The tour comes with some important information for travelers:
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The tour receives a 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, and it offers great value for the money.
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Participants must drive themselves to the meeting point, as no shuttle service is provided.
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Guests are advised to bring appropriate attire and gear, such as sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and water shoes, while items like sandals, flip-flops, and pets aren’t allowed.
Customer Reviews
Based on the 5/5 rating from 2 reviews, the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour appears to be a hit with customers.
Reviewers praise the breathtaking scenery, thrilling rapids, and knowledgeable guides. One reviewer highlights the "incredible experience" of spotting wildlife like bald eagles and bighorn sheep.
Another emphasizes the tour’s "great value" and recommends it as a "must-do" activity.
The jet boat tour seems to provide an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Hells Canyon.
With high customer satisfaction and positive feedback, this tour is sure to delight adventurous travelers.
Exploring Hells Canyon
How does one fully capture the grandeur and rugged beauty of Hells Canyon? This jet boat tour offers a thrilling vantage point to witness the canyon’s dramatic landscapes:
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Towering rock walls rise up to 8,000 feet, casting shadows over the churning Snake River.
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Lush alpine forests and desert grasslands cling to the canyon’s steep slopes, home to abundant wildlife.
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Powerful rapids crash through the narrow gorge, delivering an adrenaline-fueled ride along the historic waterway.
From the comfort of a jet boat, visitors can enjoy the rugged splendor of this natural wonder and gain a deeper appreciation for its timeless allure.
Discovering the Snake River
The Snake River winds its way through the heart of Hells Canyon, offering visitors a chance to witness its raw power and natural beauty up close.
This jet boat tour takes guests deep into the canyon, navigating through the Wild River Section and its largest rapids. Along the way, they’ll spot diverse wildlife, like bald eagles and bighorn sheep, against the backdrop of towering rock walls and alpine forests.
The tour also provides insight into the region’s rich history, from Native American settlements to ranching families.
It’s an exhilarating journey through one of the West’s most stunning landscapes.
Ask Away
Can I Bring My Children on the Tour?
Yes, children are welcome on the tour. However, the operator recommends that they be at least 8 years old, as the tour involves navigating through rapids and may not be suitable for younger kids.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The minimum age requirement for the tour is not specified. However, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the operator may have additional restrictions based on safety considerations. It’s best to check with the tour provider directly.
Is There a Weight Limit for the Jet Boat?
The tour operator doesn’t specify a weight limit for the jet boat. However, participants should be aware that the boats have a maximum capacity, and individuals with mobility issues may want to inquire about any restrictions.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour company does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The standard price of $206 per person applies to all participants regardless of age or student status.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the operator provides a buffet lunch. Bringing a reusable water bottle is recommended to stay hydrated during the 5-hour excursion.
Final Words
The Hells Canyon Yellow Jet Boat Tour to Kirkwood on the Snake River offers an unforgettable adventure through one of America’s most stunning canyons. Participants can expect breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and a delicious buffet lunch, all while experiencing the thrill of navigating the region’s largest water rapids. This tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an exhilarating and memorable outdoor experience.
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