Overview

Hells Canyon Dam is located on the border of Oregon and Idaho, with the Seven Devils Mountains to the west, and Hells Canyon Wilderness to the east. The gateway to the Snake River’s designated wild and scenic stretch, the surrounding land is steeped in Western history. Once home to Chief Joseph, the Nez Perce and other Indian tribes enjoyed the area’s mild winters and abundant wildlife. Learn more about the area at the Hells Canyon Creek Visitors Center right below the dam. To make your visit even more memorable, take one of the Hells Canyon Dam jet boat tours available nearby.

Location & Directions

Hells Canyon Dam is in the southern part of Hells Canyon.  Starting at Baker City, Oregon, take Hwy 86 about 75.5 miles to the river crossing, just out of Copperfield. Go north across the river. The dam is another 51 miles.

For information contact Idaho Fish & Game in Nampa, ID at 208-465-8465.

Season

You can visit Hells Canyon Dam Idaho year round, although winter conditions may not always be favorable. 

Additional information 

You can fish in the Hells Creek Reservoir for crappie, small mouthed bass, channel catfish, and sturgeon.

Hells Canyon Dam was the last of three hydroelectric dams built by the Idaho Power Company as part of the Hells Canyon Project. The other two dams, Oxbow Dam and Brownlee Dam, are further south on the river.