Hells Gate State Park

Near Hells Gate State Park, there are several excellent dining options. Ernie's Steakhouse is a popular choice for steak lovers, offering a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of wines. Zany Graze provides a quirky dining experience with a mix of American basics and sushi, set in a colorful and eclectic space. For breakfast enthusiasts, Waffles n More is a must-visit, known for its waffles and other breakfast staples. Mandarin Pine Restaurant offers a variety of Chinese dishes in a cozy setting, while IMUA Hawaiian Style Restaurant serves Hawaiian-inspired cuisine with a casual vibe.

These restaurants cater to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors to Hells Gate State Park have plenty of options for dining out.

For accommodations near Hells Gate State Park, the Hells Canyon Grand Hotel is a top choice. This laid-back hotel features a grill restaurant, lounge, pub, and outdoor pool, offering comfortable rooms with river views. Another option is the Holiday Inn Express Lewiston, which provides modern amenities and scenic views. The Quality Inn offers simplicity with free breakfast and a pool. The Hampton Inn Lewiston is known for its river views and pool. These hotels offer a range of options for different budgets and preferences.

Each hotel provides unique amenities and services, ensuring that guests have a comfortable stay while exploring the area.

Hells Gate State Park offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes well-developed recreational facilities such as a marina with boat slips, a swimming beach, and picnic areas. Campers can enjoy over 80 tent sites, cabins, and RV sites with full hookups. The park also features a paved bicycle trail that connects to miles of trails along the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. Restrooms and showers are available for campers and day visitors. Additionally, the park offers educational programs led by park rangers and provides Wi-Fi for those needing to stay connected.

The Lewis and Clark Discovery Center within the park offers indoor and outdoor exhibits, a film about Lewis and Clark's journey, and a gift shop. The park's scenic beauty, including basalt cliffs and river views, adds to its appeal.

Visitors to Hells Gate State Park can engage in a wide range of activities. Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding are popular on the park's trails, which offer scenic views of the Snake River and surrounding landscape. Water activities include boating, fishing, swimming, and jet boat tours into Hells Canyon. The park also offers disc golf, sailing, and paddleboating. For those interested in nature, bird watching is a great way to explore the area's wildlife. The park's long recreation season allows for year-round enjoyment of these activities.

The Lewis and Clark Discovery Center provides educational programs and exhibits, adding a historical and cultural dimension to the park's offerings.

Hells Gate State Park offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy its facilities. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and showers are available in the campground and day-use areas. The park's trails and facilities are designed to be accessible, although some areas may require assistance due to terrain. The Lewis and Clark Discovery Center is also accessible, providing equal access to its exhibits and programs. Additionally, the park's parking areas are generally flat and close to amenities, making it easier for visitors with mobility needs to navigate the park.

Parking at Hells Gate State Park is generally convenient, with large parking lots available near the marina and other facilities. The park's design ensures that parking areas are close to recreational sites, making it easy for visitors to access the beach, trails, and other amenities. While parking is free, it's advisable to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot. The proximity of parking areas to the park's attractions minimizes walking distances, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Hells Gate State Park is steeped in history and natural wonder. It is located at the mouth of Hells Canyon, which is the deepest river gorge in North America, surpassing even the Grand Canyon in depth. The park was created as part of the Lower Granite Dam project, making it a unique example of environmental mitigation. The area has significant cultural importance as a former Nez Perce village and a key stop on the Lewis and Clark Trail. The park's geology is also fascinating, with basalt columns formed millions of years ago.

These unique features make Hells Gate State Park a compelling destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.

One of the main attractions at Hells Gate State Park is the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center, which commemorates the historical journey of Lewis and Clark through Idaho. The park's proximity to Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America, offers breathtaking views and opportunities for jet boat tours. The scenic beauty of the Snake River and surrounding basalt cliffs provides a unique landscape for exploration. Additionally, the park's location near the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers adds to its natural appeal.

Visitors can also explore the remnants of a former Nez Perce village, adding a cultural dimension to the park's attractions.