Hells Canyon Road Trip Itinerary
The Hells Canyon Road Trip is a great way to explore the stunning landscapes of the United States. Starting in La Grande, the route leads through Joseph, Hells Canyon and Granite, ending in Baker City. The total distance is around 509km and it’s recommended to take 3 days to complete the trip. The best time of year to drive is in the warmer months, when the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Poor road conditions can be expected in some parts, so it’s important to drive carefully. This road trip is suitable for every driver and can be managed on a moderate budget.
3
number of days
509 km
route length
fair
budget
explorer
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
La Grande
Distance 509 km
Driving time 7.4 h
Pace: fast
152.8 kWh
Airports
PDX
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La Grande, located in the heart of Eastern Oregon, is the perfect starting point for the “Hells Canyon Road Trip”. This small town of 13,000 is known for its friendly locals and historic downtown. La Grande is home to Eastern Oregon University, making it a great cultural hub for the area.
The outdoor enthusiast will find plenty of things to do in La Grande. Visit the Union County Historical Museum, where you can learn about the town’s history and culture. Explore the Eagle Cap Wilderness, which offers hiking and camping opportunities. Be sure to take a trip to Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, where you can enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, and other mountain activities.
If you’re traveling from out of town, the closest international airport is in Portland, Oregon (PDX). Once you arrive, you can rent a car to complete the “Hells Canyon Road Trip”. La Grande offers a variety of car rental options, so you can find the perfect vehicle for your journey.
No matter what your interests are, La Grande offers something for everyone. Make it the starting point for your “Hells Canyon Road Trip” and discover all that Eastern Oregon has to offer.
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La Grande
- Joseph
Distance 114 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: fast
34.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your road trip in La Grande and experience the 71 miles of picturesque landscapes of Wallowa and Joseph. Your journey will take less than two hours, so make sure to take in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and lush greenery.
Once you reach Wallowa, be sure to stop and explore the city’s historic downtown. From there, you can also take a short drive to the nearby Eagle Cap Wilderness, where you can enjoy a variety of activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing.
Continue your journey and make your way to Joseph. Here, you can take a stroll through the city’s charming downtown and take in the stunning views of the Wallowa Mountains. After exploring Joseph, you can also take a short drive to the nearby Wallowa Lake State Park, where you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.
Make sure to take in the beauty of this road trip and all the sights along the way. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Joseph - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Joseph
- Salt Creek
Distance 29 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
8.7 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip experience? Start in Joseph, United States and embark on a 18mi journey to Salt Creek. Along the way you can visit the Wallowa Lake State Park, with its stunning views of the Wallowa Mountains and its great hiking trails. You can also visit the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo, an annual event that celebrates the heritage of the Nez Perce Tribe. Last but not least, you can explore the historic downtown of Joseph, where you can find unique shops, galleries and restaurants. The whole journey should take you less than 1 hour, so you can easily make it a day trip. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!
Salt Creek - United States - North America - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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3
Salt Creek
- Hells Canyon
Distance 43 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
11.1 kWh
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Start your road trip adventure in Salt Creek, United States, and get ready to explore the amazing Hells Canyon! This 27 mile drive will take you less than an hour, and you'll be rewarded with some of the most stunning views you can imagine.
The first stop of this stage should be the Salt Creek Falls Viewpoint, where you can admire the breathtaking view of the waterfall and the lush forest. Then, make your way to the Hells Canyon Overlook, where you can soak in the wonderful view of the canyon.
Next, you can visit the Hells Canyon Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the area and its history. Finally, make your way to the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, where you can explore the area's amazing trails and take in the breathtaking views.
This is just one of the stages of an amazing road trip, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to explore the wonders of Salt Creek and Hells Canyon!
Hells Canyon - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Hells Canyon
- Cooperfield
Distance 47 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
12.1 kWh
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Welcome to the Hells Canyon-Cooperfield road trip! This stage of the tour will take you 29 miles through some of the most spectacular scenery the United States has to offer. The drive should take you less than an hour, so you'll have plenty of time to soak in the sights!
The journey begins in Hells Canyon, a deep canyon carved by the Snake River in the Pacific Northwest. Here, you can take a boat tour to explore the canyon's steep walls and abundant wildlife.
Your next stop is Cooperfield, a small town located in the heart of the Columbia Plateau. Here, you can visit the historic Cooperfield Ranch and learn about the area's rich ranching history. You can also take a hike along the nearby trails to take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills.
No matter how you choose to spend your time, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Cooperfield - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Cooperfield
- Granite
Distance 126 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
37.7 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage that starts in Cooperfield and ends in Granite! This 78mi journey takes less than 2 hours of driving, so you can make the most of the scenery and attractions along the way.
Start the tour in Cooperfield and visit the Cooperfield Museum of Natural History, a great spot to learn about the region's geology, biology, and history. After that, you can explore the Cooperfield Waterfront Park, where you can find a variety of outdoor activities.
Continue the trip to Granite and enjoy the beauty of the Granite National Park, where you can take a hike, explore the local wildlife, or take a leisurely stroll. You can also visit the Granite Aquarium, where you can observe a variety of aquatic species.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Granite - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Granite
- Haines
Distance 78 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: fast
23.5 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an unforgettable journey from Granite to Haines, a distance of 49mi that can be covered in fewer than 2 hours.
Begin your adventure in Granite and explore the unique attractions of this city, such as the Granite Creek Park, the Granite Falls Historical Museum and the Granite Falls Golf Course.
Continue your journey to Haines and enjoy its natural beauty, such as the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, the Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Area and the Chilkat State Park.
Do not miss the opportunity to visit the Haines Borough Public Library and the Haines Sheldon Museum.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
We hope you enjoy this stage of your road trip!
Haines - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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7
Haines
- Baker City
Distance 73 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: fast
22.0 kWh
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Welcome to the Haines - Baker City road trip! This 45mi journey will take you less than an hour of driving and will be a great opportunity to explore the history of this area.
Start your journey in Haines and take a walk on the street of the small town and explore its history. Don't forget to visit the Haines Sheldon Museum, which offers a great insight into the past of the region.
On your way to Baker City, you will pass through the beautiful countryside. Be sure to pay attention to the historical sites and monuments along the way.
When you arrive in Baker City, take a stroll through its historic downtown and explore the many shops and restaurants. Visit the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center to learn more about the history of the region.
This is just one of the stages of an amazing road trip, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Baker City - United States - North America - Road Trip - Vikipedi
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Baker City
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Located in the Northeast corner of Oregon, Baker City is the perfect ending point for the "Hells Canyon Road Trip" adventure. With its picturesque mountain views, the city offers plenty of outdoor activities and attractions for visitors.
The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is the perfect place to learn about the history of the area. The park provides both an interactive and educational experience as visitors can follow the Oregon Trail from the east coast to the west.
The city also boasts a vibrant downtown area with plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. The Geiser Grand Hotel is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Built in 1889, the hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and provides a unique glimpse into the past.
For those who are looking to explore the outdoors, the Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort is a great place to start. Located just 30 miles from town, the resort offers plenty of activities for both winter and summer. From skiing and snowboarding to hiking, biking, and fishing, Anthony Lakes has something for everyone.
The closest international airport to Baker City is the Boise Airport (BOI). Travelers can take a short drive to the airport after exploring the city and its surrounding areas.
Baker City is the perfect ending destination for the "Hells Canyon Road Trip". With its rich history, vibrant downtown area, and outdoor activities, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Hells Canyon Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
La Grande
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End:
Baker City
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Distance:
509 km
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Stay:
3 days
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Getting there:
Portland International Airport (PDX)
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When to drive:
July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the stunning Hells Canyon Road Trip to explore the remarkable landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. This 509km journey stretches from La Grande to Baker City, meandering through the quaint town of Joseph and along the breathtaking Hells Canyon. Tailored for nature enthusiasts and Road Trip aficionados, dedicate at least 3 days to truly immerse in the diverse beauty and cultural heritage along this route.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- La Grande: A vibrant city nestled in the Blue Mountains, serving as the gateway to the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.
- Joseph: Celebrated for its artistic community and bronze foundries, this town is the crown jewel near Wallowa Lake and the majestic Wallowa Mountains.
- Hells Canyon: Marvel at North America's deepest river gorge, overshadowing the Grand Canyon in depth, with stunning panoramas and thrilling outdoor activities like whitewater rafting.
- Granite: Step back in time in this quaint historic mining town, which is part of the Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway, offering insights into Oregon's gold mining past.
- Baker City: Conclude your Road Trip in this charming city, boasting its Gold Rush heritage, iconic 19th-century architecture, and the fascinating National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center.
Best Time to Go:
To experience the full splendor of the landscapes and access all attractions, plan your Road Trip between late spring and early fall, when the weather is favorable and the Roads are most navigable.
Potential Risks:
Be prepared for potential variable Road conditions, especially near Hells Canyon, where the terrain can be rugged. It's essential to drive cautiously and check local travel advisories.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Distance: Approximately 509km (316 miles).
- Suggested Duration: Minimum of 3 days to allow for exploration and enjoyment of the region's natural wonders and historical sites.
- Budget: Moderate, with costs varying based on accommodation choices and activities.
- The route welcomes drivers of various skill levels, with most Roads well-maintained and signposted.
- Hells Canyon is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Rocky Mountain elk, bighorn sheep, and seven species of fish unique to the Snake River basin.
- The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is part of the larger Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, offering a captivating glimpse into Oregon's geological and cultural evolution.
A good choice for:
The Hells Canyon Road Trip encapsulates the spirit of the American West with its dynamic scenery and rich history. With thoughtful planning and consideration of Road conditions, adventurers will be rewarded with an enriching and picturesque driving experience that captures the heart of the region's wilderness and heritage.
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