Contrary To Its Name, The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway Is A Downright Divine Drive In Oregon
By Sarah McCosham|Published September 14, 2021
×
Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
What’s in a name? Well, if we’re talking about Hells Canyon in Oregon… not much. Because contrary to its name, Hells Canyon is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places in all of Oregon. Located in the northeastern region of the state, Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America, plunging 8,000 vertical feet in its deepest areas. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, which spans both Oregon and Idaho, encompasses more than 215,000 acres of rugged wilderness. It’s one of the PNW’s most wildly beautiful places, and you can experience its splendor along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, a downright divine drive in Oregon.
The 213-mile Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is a loop that encircles the Wallowa Mountains, intersecting with Interstate 84 at Baker City and La Grande. It's one of the most beautiful road trips in the state.
While the route can easily be completed in a day, there are so many noteworthy destinations along the way that it's best to devote a few days or long weekend to this trip!
The Hells Canyon Dam at the bottom of the canyon is open year-round; and, as the deepest river gorge in North America, is definitely a bucket-list-worthy stop along the byway.
This living history museum explores the Oregon Trail, as well as the state's legendary pioneer and gold rush history.
This road trip cruises through Virtue Flats, an area known for its designated Off-Highway Vehicle Trails. Outdoor enthusiasts come here for unrivaled mountain biking, dirt bike riding, and ATVing.
This charming Oregon locale has an amazing downtown and is a delightful place to stop and spend an afternoon, grab a bite to eat, or put your feet up for the night!
Advertisement
In addition to extraordinary beauty, you'll also see an abundance of wildlife along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, too. (Keep your eyes peeled for the infamous Wallowa llamas!)
Oregon is a state of such extraordinary natural beauty. It's a place where so many different nature scenes exist simultaneously: rugged basalt cliffs and soft meadow fields; fertile prairies and barren lands; snow-capped mountains and desert canyons.
And on the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, you'll experience some of Oregon's most beautiful features, all in one very memorable road trip.
Have you driven the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience! Learn more and plan your trip along this stunning route here.
