Located near the vibrant city of Boise, the Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour offers an unforgettable adventure through one of Idaho’s most stunning natural landscapes. Navigating the Snake River, guests are treated to an up-close look at the dramatic canyon walls and lush surroundings while learning about the region’s rich history. With an impressive traveler recommendation rate, this tour promises an immersive experience that outdoor enthusiasts won’t want to miss. But the real question is, what makes this journey so captivating?
Good To Know
- The Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour departs from the South entrance of Hells Canyon, approximately 2 hours from Boise, Idaho.
- The tour offers an immersive experience in the rugged beauty of the Snake River, showcasing dramatic canyon walls and diverse landscapes.
- Participants can learn about the region’s Native American and ranching history through live commentary provided by the tour captain.
- Lunch is served on the river during the tour, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the scenic beauty and wildlife.
- The tour provides convenient transportation options, with the meeting point and launch site located near the Hells Canyon Dam Visitor Center.
Tour Overview
The Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour near Boise, Idaho offers travelers a chance to explore the wild river section of the Snake River in the stunning Hells Canyon, which straddles the border between Oregon and Idaho.
This 92-review, 98% traveler-recommended tour features large rapids and deep canyon scenery, including rock walls, grasslands, and alpine forest.
The tour departs from the south entrance of Hells Canyon, allowing guests to experience the region’s scenic beauty.
With a jet boat ride, travelers can efficiently explore this remarkable landscape while learning about the area’s Native American and ranching history from the live commentary.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Boise.
Exploring the Snake River in Hells Canyon
A thrilling jet boat ride along the Snake River allows travelers to enjoy the rugged beauty of Hells Canyon.
As the boat navigates the river’s rapids, passengers take in the dramatic canyon walls, grasslands, and alpine forests. The captain provides live commentary, sharing insights into the region’s Native American and ranching history.
Lunches are served on the river, allowing travelers to fully experience the scenic surroundings.
This excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the Wild River section of the Snake River, showcasing Idaho’s natural wonders in a short, action-packed adventure.
Native American and Ranching History
As the jet boat navigates the Snake River through Hells Canyon, the captain’s live commentary enlightens passengers about the region’s rich Native American and ranching history.
The area was once home to the Nez Perce and Shoshone-Bannock tribes, who traversed the canyon for centuries.
In the 1800s, ranchers arrived, grazing cattle and sheep along the river’s edge.
Remnants of homesteads and old mining camps dot the canyon walls, offering glimpses into the past.
The captain shares these captivating tales, bringing the landscape’s history to life for guests during their journey through this rugged, scenic wilderness.
Enjoying the Scenic Beauty
Though the jet boat swiftly carries passengers through Hells Canyon, there’s ample time to simply take in the area’s breathtaking natural beauty.
As the boat navigates the river, travelers are treated to sweeping vistas of towering rock walls, lush grasslands, and alpine forests.
The canyon’s dramatic landscape unfolds at every turn, with the Snake River cutting a winding path through the rugged terrain.
Whether it’s admiring the rugged cliffs or spotting wildlife, the Hells Canyon tour offers a chance to take in Idaho’s scenic splendor.
Accessing the Meeting and Pickup Locations
How do travelers access the meeting and pickup locations for the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour?
The tour’s meeting point is at Hells Canyon Adventures in Council, Idaho. The launch site is located 1 mile north of the Hells Canyon Dam at the Hells Canyon Creek Visitor Center.
Travelers can reach these locations via several routes:
- Highway 71 from Cambridge, Idaho
- Highway 86 from Baker City, Oregon
- USFS Road #39 from Wallowa Lake/Joseph, Oregon
At the end of the tour, the activity concludes back at the original meeting point.
Accessibility and transportation options make it convenient for participants to join this scenic jet boat experience.
Tour Experience and Inclusions
The Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour provides an immersive experience that allows travelers to explore the wild and scenic Snake River within the dramatic Hells Canyon.
The jet boat ride enables visitors to cover a significant portion of the river in a short time, while a knowledgeable captain shares insights into the region’s Native American and ranching history.
Guests can also enjoy a provided lunch as they admire the canyon’s stunning scenery, including towering rock walls, lush grasslands, and alpine forests.
This tour offers an engaging and efficient way to experience the natural beauty of Hells Canyon.
Additional Information for Participants
To ensure a seamless experience, participants must be physically capable of boarding the jet boat independently.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. However, infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Additionally:
- The tour operates in all weather conditions, so participants should dress appropriately.
- Dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking, as the tour provides lunch on the river.
- The tour has a maximum capacity of 4 travelers.
Pricing and Reviews
Priced at $218.36 per person, the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour is a non-refundable experience.
With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 92 reviews, the tour receives a 98% traveler recommendation.
As one reviewer noted, "The trip was great. The scenery spectacular. The pilot knew his stuff. We’d a great time."
The tour provides an opportunity to explore the wild section of the Snake River in Hells Canyon, offering a chance to admire Idaho’s scenic beauty from the comfort of a jet boat with live commentary from the captain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provides lunch for all travelers, and outside food and beverages are not permitted on the jet boat.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?
There’s no minimum age requirement, but the tour isn’t recommended for infants as they must sit on laps. Pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions are also advised against participating.
What Is the Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy?
The tour has a non-refundable policy, but customers can reschedule their booking with at least 72 hours’ notice. There are no refunds for no-shows or cancellations within 72 hours of the tour date.
Are Life Jackets Provided, and Are They Required to Wear?
Life jackets are provided and required to be worn throughout the tour for safety. The tour operator ensures all participants are properly equipped and takes precautions to protect guests during the jet boat ride.
Can I Take Photographs or Videos During the Tour?
Yes, passengers can take photographs and videos during the tour. The tour operator encourages capturing the scenic beauty of the region. However, passengers should be mindful of not obstructing the views of others.
The Sum Up
The Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour offers an exhilarating adventure through Idaho’s stunning natural landscapes. Travelers can enjoy the region’s rich history and breathtaking scenery, with live commentary and a delicious lunch served amidst the dramatic canyon walls. With a high recommendation from previous guests, this tour is a must-try for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable exploration of Hells Canyon and the Snake River.