Hells Canyon, Washington

At the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers lie Lewiston, Idaho and Clarkston Washington, named to honor the encampment of Lewis & Clark's Corp of Discovery during their journey to the Pacific Ocean. Today, Clarkston and Asotin County are known as the gateway to Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.

Many don't know that Hells Canyon is North America's deepest gorge. You can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the canyon on one of the region's regular boat tours, and experience the thrill of whitewater rafting or jet boating. Fish abound in these rivers, and the mild weather in this locale offers extensive year-round recreational opportunities. Or you can take a relaxing stroll along the miles of river levee pathways.

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Asotin County

Asotin County is known as the Gateway to Hells Canyon, North America's deepest gorge. Recreational opportunities abound from the gateway communities of, Clarkston and Asotin, located on the banks of the Snake River.

A professionally guided tour on the Snake River through the astounding Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is an experience of lifetime and a "must see" while touring through Southeast Washington. The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is nearly 700 acres of archeological, recreational and ecological treasures including startling rugged and spectacular wilderness areas. A study in contrasts, the Seven Devil mountain range rises 9,393 feet in elevation at "He Devil" mountain, then plunges 8,000 feet (1.57 miles) from its summit to the mouth to Granite Creek making it North Aremica's deepest gorge. Choose your own adventure of how to tour the canyon from a mild jet boat tour on a comfortable covered boat, to a wild ride down the rapids in a raft or dory boat. A tour in the canyon can include a day tour with lunch, and evening dinner cruise, a multi-day trip with an overnight stay at a rustic camp-style lodge or camping on a white sandy beach under the stars.

Nearby Cities

Asotin - South of Clarkston, just past an outcropping of rocks called Swallows Nest, lies the small town of Asotin on the banks of the Snake River. It offers water sports, fishing, hunting, winter sports, picknicking and camping.

Asotin is also known as the gateway to a sportsman's paradise with easy access to hunting and fishing. Try your hand at some of the best fishing in the Northwest on a charted fishing trip into Hells Canyon.

Clarkston - Clarkston, affectionately known as "The Gateway to Hells Canyon," prides itself with mild winter climate, enabling golf to be played year round on picturesque courses. While jogging or strolling along one of the many river paths or levees, species of wildlife and vegetation enhance a rural atmosphere of tranquility. Appointed National Tree City in 1996, some of the loveliest dogwood, elm, maple and fir trees are located in the city's recreational parks.

Asotin County's largest city, Clarkston, is located across the Snake River from Lewiston, Idaho. First known as Jawbone Flat, Clarkston was accessible to Lewiston residents by ferry.

Things to do

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area - Established by the U.S. Congress in 1975 to preserve the free flowing character of the Snake River and to protect archaeological, recreational and ecological treasures. It covers 652,488 acres, including some of the most rugged and spectacular wilderness area on earth. Seven Devils mountain range rises over 9,000 feet in elevation at “He Devil” mountain and plunges 1 miles from its summit to the mouth of Granite Creek. The best way to see a lot of Hells Canyon in a short amount of time is with a commercial jet boat outfitter.

Asotin County Historical Society Museum - Located in Asotin, Washington, on Filmore and 3rd Street, the Asotin Museum is full of pioneering history and exhibits. See dozens of hand carved representations of days gone by, a Mastodon elephant tusk over 10,000 years old, an old time barbershop and more.

Pataha Flour Mill - Now a restaurant and museum, the 122-year old Pataha Flour Mill produced the first patented flour in the United States sold under the Triple X brand. Some older folks remember wearing underwear and pajamas made from the famous flour sacks. The bags can also been seen in old bugs bunny cartoons.

Panoramic View of Three States - Take U.S. Hwy 95 north and watch for “view sites” signs near the top of the hill, or travel the old Spiral Highway (turn left at the second exit north of the Clearwater Bridge) See the Lewis & Clark Valley and three states from 2,750 feet above the valley floor, wonderful view both day and night.

Nez Perce National Historical Park - Located 12 miles to the east of Clarkston on Highway 95, is the Nez Perce National Park headquarters and museum. The museum memorializes Nez Perce history and culture and houses a fine collection of Nez Perce clothing and accouterments, utilitarian artifacts, a dugout canoe and a model of an ancient lodge.

Events

Asotin County Fair (April) - Located in Asotin.

Nez Perce County Fair (September) - Located at the Nez Perce Co. Fair Building.

Hells Canyon Rock & Gem Show (October) - Located at the Nez Perce Co. Fair Building.

For more information on any of the topics above or anything else that the Hells Canyon area has to offer, visit the Hells Canyon Visitor Association website or be sure to

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