The Snake River below Hells Canyon Dam and within the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area has complicated restrictions which involve areas know as the “WILD” section and the “SCENIC” section. These areas are subject to access restrictions during a control season that runs from the Friday before Memorial Day weekend until September 10th.
The Wild section extends from Hells Canyon Dam downstream to Kirkwood ranch/museum. During the control season the Wild section is restricted to 6 private powerboat launches per day. The Wild section is also subject to “Non-Motorized” periods during the control season. These periods occur every other week from Monday through Wednesday. During the non-motorized periods powerboats (expect for outboard motors on float rafts) are prohibited within the Wild section.
The Scenic section begins at Kirkwood ranch and extends downstream to Cache Creek where the Forest Service maintains a small historic museum and office. During the control season the Scenic section is limited to 12 launches per day.
The Wild section contains the “Big Three” rapids in Hells Canyon – Wild Sheep, Granite, and Rush Creek. All are formidable rapids and should be attempted only by VERY EXPERIENCED boaters. In addition to the three big rapids there are a number of other significant rapids and many smaller rapids. The full length of the lower Snake is a river environment with ever-present rock and current hazards and due dilengence is warranted at all times.
The launch at Pittsburg landing is very good. The road from Hammer Creek on the Salmon River to Pittsburg Landing is dirt/gravel with steep uphill and a 16% downgrade into Hells Canyon. Use caution when descending this grade.