The Snake River leaves Hells Canyon dam and flows through Hells Canyon, running 79 miles north to Heller Bar. Hells Canyon is the nation’s deepest canyon: 8,000 feet from rim to river at its deepest point with an average depth of 5,500 feet. By comparison, the Grand Canyon is 6,000 feet at its deepest. We spent a week on the river, ran class III/IV rapids, drifted through quiet stretches, and enjoyed the company of friends.
Moby launches the Lop-Eared Mule into the river below Hells Canyon Dam.
Meet the all-star crew:
Susie and Marty prepare their signature risotto.Ethan and Hannah whip up a feast for Thai night.Despite having rowed several thousand river miles, this is Keith’s first trip through Hells Canyon.Noelle and Lawrence serve up burgers and smiles.Marshall, Mike, and Larry dress for dinner.Dolly and Doug round out the crew.
The lowlights and highlights:
The Lop-Eared Mule develops a leak. (Actually, many leaks.)Even after patching, the Lop-Eared Mule requires frequent pumping to stay afloat. Marty rows while Susie pumps . . . and pumps . . . and pumps.Keith tries for a sturgeon. Like Santiago in Hemingway’s Old Man and the Sea, Keith talks to the fish. “Fish,” he said, “I love you and respect you very much, but I will kill you dead before this day ends.”Keith prepares early morning coffee while everyone else sleeps.A beautiful sandy beach camp.
Moby Goes 
Looks like a fun trip.
Love the photos. That is not a unicorn; that is Mr. Thornsbury. Makes me want to be on the river tonight. I’ll bring the shirt. M
Love the costumes – and also that Marty is wearing an NRA unicorn shirt.
Mostly Marty does not wear a shirt at all, but when he does, he certainly should go with the unicorn!
Good thing you tell us who is who. Mistook Dolly for Janene at first. Looks like a great trip.
Yes, I see how you could confuse me with Dolly. We have a lot in common!