What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Brownlee River Trail
The trailhead for the Brownlee River Trail is a short drive outside Cambridge, ID. The in-and-out trail moves upstream alongside the Brownlee River from its entrance into the Brownlee Reservoir to where the river begins its 2,000-foot tumble to Hells Canyon — the lowest elevation in Idaho. The distinctive pathway runs up and down the hills through which the Brownlee River is carved, sometimes offering incredible views from cliffs above the water.
Length: 19.4 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Cuddy Mountain
Starting from a trailhead at the Brownlee Campground, this in-and-out trail climbs 2,864 feet steadily to reach the ridgeline that operates as the mountain’s saddle. Periodic breaks in the climb are provided by switchbacks allowing the legs to rest before tackling the next incline. Views from the ridgeline include the Wallowa Mountains and the Seven Devils.
Length: 7.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing and Boating
Every campground alongside the Brownlee and Oxbow reservoirs provides a boat ramp for anglers to get onto the water. The preferred watercraft for those venturing through the lakes is a raft as each craft must be ported around the dams. While both reservoirs provide ample supplies of bass, crappie, and catfish, Brownlee supports the densest population with the nutrient-rich flows from upriver.
Climbing
The cliffs of Hells Canyon are the deepest in North America; they dwarf the famous canyons of the Grand Canyon. In Oxbow/Brownlee, situated in the upper reaches of Hells Canyon, there are over 200 established routes for rock climbers to seek the thrill of climbing out of the canyon. The soft limestone consistency of the cliffs elevates the challenge of the routes that culminate in amazing views of the river below.
Wildlife Viewing
The water and isolation bring wildlife to the area. Even the smallest animals, mice, squirrels, and voles thrive in the cliffs above the waters. Mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears are often found wandering the lands, while bald eagles, osprey, and golden eagles search for prey from the skies.
Picnicking
Picnic tables are available at several campgrounds lying inside Oxbow/Brownlee, and others are found at trailheads with a few along the trails themselves. Overlooks along the roadways also provide picnic tables for individuals and families to enjoy a meal while experiencing the fantastic views. Every picnicker is asked to clean up after themselves so that the next visitors to stop in the area can enjoy it as much as them.
