Hells Canyon National Recreation Area Scenic Driving Overview

The landscape of Hells Canyon is a study in contrast, from the steep, desert-like lower slopes and sandbars edging the Snake River, to the rugged peaks and alpine lakes of the majestic Seven Devils Mountains towering almost 8,000 feet above.

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway System

Some of the most dramatic scenery in the country is found along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway on the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Located on a combination of county, state, private, and National Forest roads, this 314-mile trip includes a loop road through the Wallow Mountains with side trips to view the impressive Hells Canyon of the Snake River, the deepest river-carved gorge in North America.

The Wallowa Mountain Scenic Byway runs through or directly adjacent to all the sites. Use continues to increase as more recreationists are made aware of this scenic route.