The Snake River is so much more than just a river. It’s a symbol of Idaho’s wild and scenic beauty, a destination for adventure, and one of the most incredible natural wonders in the northwest. Stretching across the entirety of the Gem State before emptying into the Columbia River, this beloved river in Idaho is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Photos of the mighty Snake never fail to blow us away, but nothing compares to seeing its beauty with your own eyes.
Spanning 1,078-miles, the mighty Snake River is one of the largest rivers in the entire northwestern U.S. It may start in Wyoming and end in Washington, but the majority of its runs across the entirety of the Gem State.
Rising in western Wyoming, the Snake River then sweeps across the Snake River Plain of southern Idaho. The landscape it traverses is incredibly diverse, ranging from flat plains to the rugged Hells Canyon on the Oregon-Idaho border and, finally, the rolling Palouse Hills of North Idaho/Washington.
The river was created by a volcanic hotspot that lies underneath what is now Yellowstone National Park. Glaciers and flooding that occurred during the previous Ice Age carved out the massive canyons, cliffs, and waterfalls that make the area such a beautiful destination today.
With a drainage basin that embodies parts of six different states - Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Nevada, and Wyoming - the river is especially unique because of its geologic history.
In fact, Native Americans and indigenous peoples have resided along the river for at least 11,000 years. Salmon that spawned in the river by the millions were, and still are, a necessity for tribes like the Nez Perce and Shoshone.
A river of truly epic stature, the Snake River is by far one of Idaho's most treasured wonders. A popular spot for fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, boating, we love to explore it in just about every way possible.
Impressively, the Snake River is the 13th longest river in the country and its watershed is the 10th largest. The river pours into the Columbia River at the Tri-Cities in Washington, making it the Columbia's largest tributary.
In our humble opinion, the Snake River is one of the most beautiful rivers in the country. We couldn't be more in love with this Idaho gem! The next time you feel like seeing nature's magic firsthand, plan a visit to the longest river in our state.
Do you have any stories about adventures on the Snake River? Please feel free to share with us in the comments below! This mighty river is one of Idaho’s greatest icons, and it’s worthy of so much praise.
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