Primary Season for the Wild and Scenic Snake River begins May 27

By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Friday, May 27th, 2022 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News

NORTHEAST OREGON – (Release from the Wallowa Whitman National Forest_) The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest has announced the Wild and Scenic Snake River primary season will begin May 27, 2022 and extend through September 10, 2022. May 27 will also mark the start of the required permit season. The river, located in the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area (HCNRA), attracts approximately 50,000 boaters each year. Because of this, there has been a permit system in place for this popular section of the Snake River since the 1980s, in order to enhance visitor experiences and to protect the recreation area.

Self-issued permits are available for much of the year, however, during the primary season permits are available through www.recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.

Float permits for use during the primary season are available by lottery beginning in December. Advanced reservations for powerboat trips (available on a first come, first served basis) open in March. Any cancellations are made available to the public throughout the remainder of the primary season.