Hells Canyon is the perfect place to try new water sports and activities. The Snake River and Salmon River provide an exciting environment for all kinds of outdoor fun. But if you’ve only got a few days in your vacation and want to experience as much as possible, you may have to prioritize. What looks more fun? Let’s look at how a jet boat tour differs from whitewater rafting in Hells Canyon.

What Powers It?

The biggest and clearest distinction between the two activities is how they move the vehicle forward. Jet boats are powered by an engine. That engine sucks up water from the river and shoots it behind the boat; that’s what propels it forward. With a whitewater raft, you’ll have to do the work yourself with paddles. If you plan on whitewater rafting during your vacation, make sure you’re limber and ready for the challenge.

What’s the Experience Like?

With whitewater rafting, you’ve got to keep your eye on the river. There are rapids around Hells Canyon that are fit for beginner rafters, but other rapids require a little more experience to tackle.

Meanwhile, with a Hells Canyon jet boat ride, you can sit back and enjoy the scenery a bit more. Your boat captain will have years of experience on the water and can navigate you along the river with ease.

Who Will Love It?

Think about whom you’ve brought on vacation. What have they come to Hells Canyon for? A group of friends looking to navigate the river themselves (and who aren’t afraid of getting splashed) may love a whitewater rafting expedition. It’s a more hands-on experience.

A family vacation may benefit more from a Hells Canyon jet boat ride. Younger kids and older adults looking for more tranquility will love a jet boat ride. You’ll learn more about the history of Hells Canyon and take in the sights as you sit and watch the lovely scenery pass by.

As you plan your itinerary for your next vacation, trust River Adventures to bring you on a stellar jet boat tour or guided fishing trip. Remember how a jet boat tour differs from whitewater rafting as you choose your activities.