Ride a jet boat upriver to Polly Bemis Ranch and Buckskin Bill (water level permitting)
6 Hours
Lunch, drinks
Explore the Salmon River by Coast Guard approved jet boat from Vinegar Creek near Riggins. Cruise through rapids and canyon scenery, with stops at historic sites along the way.
An additional $4 per person United States Forest Service recreational use fee is required for travel above Vinegar Creek. Gratuities are not included. Restrooms are limited and most stops require walking on uneven ground.
50% deposit required to hold your reservation. Full refund or credit with 7 days notice of cancellation (30 days for fishing charters and group tours). Full refund or credit for reschedule if the operator cancels due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. No-shows charged full price.
Product ID: VCBZMX
Check in at the office at 8:15 AM (Mountain Time). Your jet boat tour runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Yes. You must pay an additional $4 per person United States Forest Service recreational use fee for travel above Vinegar Creek. Gratuities are not included in the trip cost.
Bring a swimsuit and/or light jacket (depending on the weather), stable footwear (walking sticks if you want them), sun protection (sunscreen and sunglasses), and a camera. You can bring your own beverages or snacks in a small cooler or bag; alcohol is allowed, but no glass bottles.
Riggins, ID | Departs from Vinegar Creek
Rich and Becky run exceptional Hells Canyon jet boat tours that consistently wow families and groups of all ages. Rich grew up on the Snake River, and his personal family history dating back generations adds authentic depth to the narration. He's a skilled captain who expertly navigates the rapids while sharing stories about the canyon's geology, wildlife, and historic sites. Becky handles logistics seamlessly, often driving the shuttle service and ensuring everyone feels comfortable throughout the day. The tours include well-planned stops at historic landmarks like Polly Bemis Ranch and opportunities to spot bighorn sheep and bald eagles. Lunch exceeds expectations with homemade touches, and getting wet through the rapids is part of the fun on hot days. The experience works beautifully for multi-generational groups, from infants to seniors in their late 70s. Be prepared for rocky, uneven terrain at stops requiring moderate mobility. The scenery is jaw-dropping, the staff radiates genuine hospitality, and the overall experience creates lasting memories that have people already planning return trips.
All I can say is “WOW!” This was an awesome day on the Snake River in Hell’s Canyon! The staff from registration to shuttling to captaining the boat was top notch. The seats in the boat were comfortable. I felt safe and looked after. They were always offering water or soda throughout the trip. The lunch they provided was very tasty and generous portions. The scenery was spectacular throughout. We saw eagles, ducks, big horn sheep, deer and a black bear. Rich, our captain, was very generous with time when wildlife was spotted and made sure we all had a chance to see if the water depth and activity allowed. We went o 9/5/2026 and while the weather started out coo in the morning, the sun was warm. The day heated up. One word summary: PERFECT!
Heather Long
September 6, 2026
All I can say is “WOW!” This was an awesome day on the Snake River in Hell’s Canyon! The staff from registration to shuttling to captaining the boat was top notch. The seats in the boat were comfortable. I felt safe and looked after. They were always offering water or soda throughout the trip. The lunch they provided was very tasty and generous portions. The scenery was spectacular throughout. We saw eagles, ducks, big horn sheep, deer and a black bear. Rich, our captain, was very generous with time when wildlife was spotted and made sure we all had a chance to see if the water depth and activity allowed. We went o 9/5/2026 and while the weather started out coo in the morning, the sun was warm. The day heated up. One word summary: PERFECT!
Heather Long
September 6, 2026
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