Improvement Project Restricts Hells Canyon Dam Road Access

Ongoing work on the dam’s spill gates will narrow the road across the dam. The road may be closed at certain times, and notice will be provided.

The road on top of Hells Canyon Dam will be restricted to one lane beginning Monday, April 15, and through the summer, as Idaho Power continues a dam improvement project. The company wants to make sure visitors traveling to the area are aware of the construction work and limited road access so they can plan accordingly.

The maximum vehicle width allowed will be 10 feet unless a driver provides crews advance notice by calling Idaho Power at 541-785-3323.

Additionally, Idaho Power anticipates occasional complete road closures will be necessary throughout the year as the project progresses. We will provide advance notice of these events, which may cause traffic delays of up to two hours. In these instances, flaggers will be stationed above and below the dam during working hours, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During this time, traffic will be let through as volume dictates. 

The road restriction is part of a long-term infrastructure improvement project at Hells Canyon Dam. The work began in 2011, and includes sandblasting and painting the dam’s spill gates.