Hells Gate State Park

Idaho · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
MountainForest
Best Seasons
SummerFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Hells Gate State Park is a productive birding destination in Idaho, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This mountain and forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Wood Duck, and Mallard among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

3/4/2026Snake River250 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

3/1/2026Mann Lake4 observed

Violet-green Swallow

Tachycineta thalassina

2/28/2026Nez Perce National Historical Park, Spalding US-ID 46.44967, -116.8167016 observed

Anna's Hummingbird

Calypte anna

2/27/2026Swallows Park1 observed

Common x Barrow's Goldeneye (hybrid)

Bucephala clangula x islandica

2/26/2026West Levee Pond1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

352/27/2026

Wood Duck

82/27/2026

Mallard

42/27/2026

Rock Pigeon

32/27/2026

Mourning Dove

12/27/2026

Great Blue Heron

12/27/2026

Northern Flicker

52/27/2026

American Kestrel

22/27/2026

Black-billed Magpie

22/27/2026

Common Raven

12/27/2026

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

12/27/2026

Canyon Wren

22/27/2026

Townsend's Solitaire

12/27/2026

American Robin

32/27/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

92/27/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

242/27/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

12/27/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

52/27/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring layers as mountain weather changes rapidly at elevation.

  2. 2

    Check exposed ridges and thermals for soaring raptors and swifts.

  3. 3

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Hells Gate State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Hells Gate State Park for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Hells Gate State Park?
Notable species at Hells Gate State Park include Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Mallard, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove. The area supports mountain, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Hells Gate State Park?
Birding at Hells Gate State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Hells Gate State Park?
Hells Gate State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.