Nestled in the rugged heart of Idaho, the Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region. With its thrilling navigation through powerful currents and towering rock walls, this intimate tour promises an unforgettable adventure. From exploring the rich history of the area to savoring a delicious onboard lunch, this experience is sure to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to discover the untamed wonders of the Wild River section of the Snake River.
Key Points
- The Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour is a thrilling excursion near Boise, Idaho, featuring breathtaking scenery along the Snake River.
- The tour offers an intimate experience with a maximum capacity of 4 travelers and provides live commentary on the region’s Native American and ranching history.
- Participants can enjoy a riverside lunch and witness the dramatic landscape of Hells Canyon, including towering rock walls, lush grasslands, and alpine forests.
- The tour is accessible from both Oregon and Idaho, with the launch site located near the Hells Canyon Dam.
- The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, and booking is non-refundable with no cancellation options.
Tour Overview
The Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour near Boise, Idaho offers adventurous travelers the opportunity to explore the Wild River section of the Snake River.
Recommended by 98% of previous travelers, this tour boasts 92 reviews with a 4.9/5 rating. Guests can expect to witness the breathtaking rock walls, grasslands, and alpine forest of the deepest canyon on the Oregon-Idaho border.
Along the journey, the live commentary provides insights into the region’s Native American and ranching history. With a maximum of 4 travelers per tour, this experience is both intimate and accessible.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Boise.
Exploring the Wild River
On the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour, guests embark on an exhilarating journey through the Wild River section of the Snake River. The jet boat navigates the powerful currents, weaving through the towering rock walls and lush grasslands. As the boat speeds along, the alpine forest provides a scenic backdrop. The live commentary enlightens travelers about the Native American history and ranching traditions of the region. The experience offers a unique perspective of the stunning natural beauty and rugged landscape of Hells Canyon.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Rock Walls | Towering canyon walls |
| Grasslands | Lush, rolling grasslands |
| Alpine Forest | Scenic, forested mountain slopes |
Scenic Views Along the Way
As the jet boat cuts through the powerful currents of the Snake River, travelers are treated to a breathtaking panorama of the Hells Canyon’s dramatic landscape.
The towering, jagged rock walls stretch skyward, carved by millions of years of erosion. Lush, verdant grasslands and alpine forests cling to the canyon’s slopes, providing a vibrant contrast to the rugged geology.
Overhead, birds of prey soar effortlessly, taking in the grandeur below.
This stunning natural scenery, combined with the thrill of the jet boat ride, creates an unforgettable experience for all who venture into the heart of Hells Canyon.
Native American and Ranching History
Although the stunning scenery of Hells Canyon captivates visitors, the rich history of the region is equally enthralling.
The canyon was home to Native American tribes for centuries, whose way of life depended on the abundant resources of the Snake River. Later, ranchers settled the area, establishing homesteads and raising livestock amid the rugged terrain.
The tour’s live commentary provides insights into this fascinating past, from the indigenous peoples’ cultural traditions to the hardy pioneer spirit of the ranchers.
Exploring Hells Canyon offers a window into the diverse history that has unfolded within its towering cliffs.
Lunch Served on the River
One aspect that distinguishes the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour is the lunch provided to participants right on the river. The onboard meal offers a refreshing respite from the adventure, allowing adventurers to recharge amidst the stunning scenery.
The lunch typically includes:
- Freshly prepared sandwiches or wraps
- Seasonal fruits and vegetables
- Assorted beverages to quench one’s thirst
This riverside dining experience elevates the tour, blending the exhilaration of the jet boat ride with the tranquility of an al fresco meal.
It’s a unique opportunity to savor the natural beauty while refueling for the remainder of the excursion.
Getting to the Launch Site
To reach the launch site for the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour, travelers can access the location from either Oregon or Idaho via a series of highways and forest roads.
From Oregon, the route involves taking Highway 71 and Highway 86. From Idaho, visitors can use Highway 71 and USFS Road #39.
The launch site is located just 1 mile north of the Hells Canyon Dam at the Hells Canyon Creek Visitor Center. Ample parking is available at the visitor center to accommodate participants.
Travelers should plan their route in advance and allow sufficient time to reach the meeting point for the start of the tour.
Tour Participant Details
The Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour has a maximum capacity of 4 travelers per tour, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it inclusive for a variety of guests.
However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, as infants must sit on laps during the ride.
To board the boat independently, participants must be physically capable, as the tour doesn’t provide assistance with boarding.
- Suitable for small groups and families
- Accessibility for wheelchair and stroller users
- Not recommended for certain medical conditions or infants
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Booking the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour starts at $218.36 per person. This non-refundable tour doesn’t allow cancellations, so travelers won’t receive a refund.
Upon booking, customers will receive confirmation of their reservation. Dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so guests are advised to dress appropriately.
With a maximum of 4 travelers per tour, the jet boat experience is designed to be intimate and personalized. While infants can attend, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions due to the physical demands of boarding the boat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Weight Limit for the Jet Boat?
There is no specific weight limit mentioned for the jet boat. The tour advises that passengers must be physically capable of boarding the boat independently, but does not provide details on weight restrictions.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator states that the boat is only for the passengers and service animals. Bringing a pet would not be permitted for safety and space reasons on the jet boat.
How Long Is the Jet Boat Ride Duration?
The jet boat ride typically lasts around 4 hours. The experience includes a scenic cruise through the stunning Hells Canyon, with live commentary on the area’s history and culture. Lunch is provided during the journey along the wild Snake River.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate?
No, participants don’t need to know how to swim to participate in the jet boat tour. The tour operator states that the boats are safe and accessible, and that infants can sit on laps during the ride.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can inquire about longer tour options when booking the tour. Additional time on the river may be available for an extra fee.
Recap
The Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Wild River section of the Snake River. Guests can expect thrilling navigation, breathtaking scenery, and informative commentary on the region’s rich history. With a small group size and a delicious onboard lunch, this tour provides an intimate and immersive experience in the heart of Idaho’s natural wonders.