Located in northeast Oregon, the byway forms an open loop drive east of I-84 with access points in Baker City and La Grande. Hells Canyon is 314 miles long and follows a series of state highways and national forest roads. The main loop follows OR 82, OR 86, and FSR 39, which are two-lane paved roads suitable for all vehicles. The spur roads are OR 350, FSR 454, FSR 3955, FSR 3965, and FSR 4240. These roads vary from two-lane paved roads to gravel roads. They are suitable for passenger vehicles but large RVs and vehicles pulling trailers may experience difficulty in turning around. Portions of the byway close temporarily during winter, otherwise Hells Canyon remains open all year.
Hells Canyon scenic byway takes travelers through the forested mountains and valleys of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest to the scenic splendor of Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. This 652,488-acre recreation area protects the free-flowing Snake River in Hells Canyon and its surrounding landscape.
The byway offers access to numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Nearly a thousand miles of trails can be found in the National Recreation Area alone. Some trails are easy to travel providing quiet walks while others are difficult to find and a challenge to the experienced hiker.
In addition to the Snake River, the byway provides access to other rivers, lakes, and streams, all offering excellent boating and fishing. Wallowa Lake is situated in a forest of pine and fir and offers boating, swimming, skiing, and fishing opportunities. The state park here has 210 campsites, 121 with full hookups and 89 for tent campers. Hiking trails provide access to the 200,416-acre Eagle Cap Wilderness.