Overview
Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America, dropping 7,913 feet from the Idaho side's Seven Devils Mountains to the Snake River's surface. The Hells Canyon Bench Trail runs along the Oregon rim in the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, managed by Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, providing access to spectacular canyon views without descending into the extreme heat of the inner gorge.
The bench trail crosses bunchgrass prairie that transforms into a wildflower display in April and May, with balsamroot, phlox, and lupine covering the open slopes. Bighorn sheep are regularly spotted on the canyon walls, and golden eagles are common overhead. The viewpoints into the canyon depth are genuinely vertiginous.
The Route
Trailhead to First Overlook (Mile 0 to 1.2)
From the Forest Road 4240 trailhead, the trail crosses open bunchgrass prairie toward the canyon rim. The first overlook at mile 1.2 provides the initial view into the canyon depth. The Snake River is visible as a thin ribbon far below.
Bench Section (Mile 1.2 to 2.8)
The trail descends slightly from the initial rim onto a bench system, working across the canyon wall through sage and bunchgrass. This section has several additional overlooks and is where bighorn sheep are most commonly spotted on the rocky outcrops below.
Upper Bench Viewpoint (Mile 2.8 to 3.4)
The trail reaches an upper viewpoint at the eastern turnaround, with the clearest view of the Seven Devils Range in Idaho. The canyon is roughly 7 miles wide at this point, and the horizontal scale is as impressive as the vertical depth. Return via the same route.
When to Hike
April through June is the prime season. The wildflower display peaks in late April and May. Temperatures are comfortable and the canyon views are clear.
March can also work in mild years when spring comes early to the canyon grasslands.
July through August is manageable on the rim trail but hot. Carry extra water and start at dawn. Avoid the inner canyon trail during this period.
October through November brings cooler temperatures and good wildlife viewing.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2.5 to 3 liters of water for this trail. There is no water on the route. Individual hydration needs are particularly important to assess here: the canyon rim is exposed to full sun and afternoon heat even in spring.
Sun protection is critical. Rattlesnakes are present in the canyon grasslands; watch where you step, particularly around rock outcrops.
Trailhead Access
Forest Road 4240 is reached via Forest Road 39 from the town of Imnaha. The roads are paved to Imnaha and gravel beyond; high-clearance vehicles are recommended for the last stretch to the trailhead. No permit required (as of 2026).
Nearby
The Snake River National Recreation Trail provides access to the canyon bottom from a different trailhead for those wanting river-level hiking in spring conditions. The Imnaha River Trail provides access to the wilderness interior.
Check current conditions and fire restrictions at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Practice Leave No Trace 7 Principles on the fragile canyon rim grasslands.