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Killgore Adventures on Snake River. Photo courtesy of Killgore Adventures
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Where the River Runs Wild: Experience Hells Canyon with Killgore Adventures

If youโ€™ve ever dreamed of exploring the untamed beauty of Idaho, thereโ€™s no better way than with Killgore Adventures. Nestled in White Bird, Idaho, and operating in the legendary Hells Canyon, Killgore Adventures offers thrilling experiences that blend natural wonder, western heritage, and pure adrenaline.

Snake river with Kilgore Adventures
Snake river with Killgore Adventures. Photo courtesy Killgore Adventures FB

About Killgore Adventures

Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America, even deeper than the Grand Canyon. Itโ€™s a place where rugged wilderness meets rich history, and where each bend of the Snake River holds a story. Killgore Adventures is a family-owned and operated outfitter with decades of experience guiding visitors through this spectacular region. Known for their professionalism, safety, and friendly local touch, the Killgore crew has built a reputation as the go-to adventure company for travelers seeking an authentic Idaho experience.

โ€œWe enjoyed the jet boat tour. This was a very professional operation with really nice boats.I had my 78 year old mother and my aunt along with my husband and we all had a great time. Our captain had over 20 years experience on that boat.โ€

Traci S
Tripadvisor reviews
Idaho Hells Canyon
Idaho Hells Canyon. Photo courtesy of Killgore Adventures FB

Your Adventure Starts Here: The Killgore Adventures Headquarters

Stop dreaming and start packing! The Killgore Adventures main office and lodging are conveniently located just off Highway 95, making the start of your journey seamless. From here, youโ€™ll check in and prepare for your unforgettable excursion. Jet boat tours typically launch from Pittsburg Landing, a breathtaking 17-mile drive from the main facility, ensuring your adventure starts deep in the heart of the canyon.

Experience the Snake River Like Never Before

Killgore Adventuresโ€™ signature Wild River Jet Boat Tour takes you through some of the most breathtaking terrain in the Northwest. This 64-mile round-trip adventure roars through Class 3, 4, and 5 rapids, stopping at historical landmarks along the river and giving you a front-row seat to wildlife like bighorn sheep, bears, and bald eagles.

  • Thrilling rapids with professional navigation
  • Scenic stops at historic homesteads and river sites
  • Wildlife encounters youโ€™ll never forget
  • Expert narration from seasoned guides

Every journey is led by skilled captains, including owner Kurt Killgore, whose deep knowledge of the river brings its history to life. Whether youโ€™re a thrill seeker or a curious explorer, this is a river adventure unlike any other.

Hells Canyon and a group of adventurists with a large fish
Hells Canyon. Photo courtesy of Killgore Adventures FB

Your Sanctuary in the Wilderness: Killgore Adventures Lodging

After a day of heart-pounding adventure, you deserve a place to relax and recharge. Killgore Adventures offers remote lodging options, ensuring your stay is as memorable as your tour.

The Ultimate Hells Canyon Escape: Kirby Creek Lodge

For a truly exclusive and soul-stirring experience, book the spectacular Kirby Creek Lodge, the only privately owned property in the Wild portion of Hells Canyon! Imagine waking up surrounded by National Forest land, deep in the heart of the canyon, accessible only by boat. The lodge offers over 3,000 sq. ft. of space with 6 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, comfortably sleeping up to 20 people, which is perfect for a family reunion or corporate retreat. As a true retreat, the rate includes a delicious Breakfast & Dinner prepared by a private on-site chef. All you have to do is relax, fish right off the dock, explore the private beach, and soak in the paradise under the Idaho stars.

Kirby Creek Lodge
Kirby Creek Lodge. Photo courtesy Killgore Adventures FB

Premium Nearby Stay: Salmon Rapids Lodge in Riggins

For travelers seeking upscale, full-service lodge comfort, Killgore Adventures recommends the nearby town of Riggins, home to the beautiful Salmon Rapids Lodge. Located about 20 miles south of the Killgore Adventures headquarters, the drive takes only about 25 minutes, keeping you close to the action while offering rustic luxury. This family-owned lodge is built with stunning log and timber structures, featuring river rock and granite throughout. Youโ€™ll be treated to world-class amenities, including a complimentary continental breakfast to fuel your day and an indoor heated pool for year-round relaxation. Many rooms boast river views and private balconies overlooking the famous Salmon River, and they offer pet-friendly options, making it an ideal choice for the entire family.

The convenience of diverse lodging means you can book your entire tripโ€”tours, lodging, and transportationโ€”in one seamless step, giving you more time to anticipate your journey.

Salmon Rapids Lodge. Photo courtesy of Kilgore Adventures
Salmon Rapids Lodge. Photo courtesy of Killgore Adventures

Choose Your Adventure

Beyond jet boat tours, Killgore Adventures offers a full menu of experiences designed for all kinds of adventurers:

  • Guided Fishing Charters: Chase steelhead, Salmon sturgeon, bass, and trout with expert anglers.
  • Jet Back/Jet Up Shuttles: Ideal for boaters and rafters who require seamless transportation.
  • Cast & Blast: combined fishing and chular hunting
3 people holding up a large fish they caught on a Kilgore Adventure
Killgore Fishing Adventures. Photo courtesy of Killgore Adventures Facebook

Why Visitors Love Killgore Adventures

  • Local expertise: This isnโ€™t just a business!  Itโ€™s their backyard.
  • Unmatched safety record: Experienced captains and well-maintained boats.
  • Immersive experiences: Every tour is a mix of adrenaline, education, and storytelling.
  • Rave reviews: Visitors consistently praise their hospitality and professionalism.
  • All-in-one adventure hub: Tours, lodging, transport, and gear, all in one place.
Kilgore Adventures Jet Boat. Photo courtesy of Kilgore Adventures FB
Killgore Adventures Jet Boat. Photo courtesy of Killgore Adventures FB

Plan Your Trip

Planning your adventure with Killgore is easy:

  1. Pick your experience: from jet boating to fishing.
  2. Book in advance: peak season fills fast!
  3. Pack for Idahoโ€™s wild beauty: layers, sun protection, and your camera.
  4. Bring your sense of adventure: this is more than a tour; itโ€™s a story youโ€™ll carry home.
  5. Let the experts handle the rest: from navigation to lodging.

Don’t just visit Hells Canyonโ€”live it.

Hells Canyon Idaho
Hells Canyon Idaho. Photo courtesy of Killgore Adventures FB

Proud Sponsors of Rio Round-Up 2025

Just like their river adventures, Killgore Adventures believes in the spirit of the West, community, courage, and celebration of the cowboy way of life. Thatโ€™s why theyโ€™re proud to be sponsors of the 2025 Rio Round-Up,  at Rio Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. This free Wrangler NFR viewing party (December 4โ€“13) brings together rodeo fans from across the country for live entertainment, giant screens, giveaways, and unforgettable western energy. This December at Rio Round-Up, join rodeo fans from across the country in celebrating the western way of life, with Killgore Adventures proudly standing behind the action as a 2025 sponsor.

Adventure Awaits

Adventure isnโ€™t something you just find; itโ€™s something you live, and with Killgore Adventures, the story begins where the river runs wild. Start your journey at https://killgoreadventures.com/  or follow their adventures on social media for breathtaking views of Hells Canyon.

Last Updated on 10/20/2025 by Fernando Rosas Suarez

About the Author:

Biography:

Howdy, y'all! My name is Fernando Rosas Suarez. I am a dedicated and enthusiastic professional with a passion for cultivating engaging experiences. Currently serving as a Box Office Team Member at Comedy Mothership in Austin, Texas. Since 2024, I have been an integral part of the Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN), where I leverage my linguistic skills to translate articles and provide event coverage, now expanding my role as a contributing writer. Originally from Mexico City, I have lived in Austin for nine years, deeply embracing and contributing to the vibrant local culture.

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