Snake River
About
Wild & Scenic designation protects 178 miles of the Snake River through Hells Canyon, North America's deepest river gorge. At 2,838 CFS average flow with optimal range of 1,400–4,250 CFS, the Snake cuts between Idaho and Oregon through basalt walls that rise over 7,000 feet from the water. The canyon holds four distinct sections: Hells Canyon proper, Pittsburg Landing to the Oregon-Washington line, the Oregon-Washington line to river mile 165.5, and the main Snake corridor. U.S. Forest Service manages the Wild & Scenic corridor, which requires advance permits for multi-day trips during peak season. USGS gauge 13310199 at Anatone tracks flows for trip planning, though the canyon's remote access means most expeditions commit to five or more days regardless of conditions.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.