heavens gate lookout

When passing through Riggins, Idaho on July 13, 2014 I asked for directions to Heavens Gate. I had seen this place on my Atlas before and the name intrigued me so I wanted to check it out. The waitress that gave me the simple directions just south of Riggins on Hwy 95 to right on Seven Devils Road said the 17 mile drive to the top was well worth the effort. She was absolutely right!! From the arid terrain of Riggins the drive up Seven Devils Road immediately starts turning into a forested and mountainous adventure. The temp in Riggins was 100+ and when I reached the Heavens Gate Vista parking lot at the end of the road the temp was 75 degrees. Amazing views of Hells Canyon area, Seven Devils Mountain Range and mountain ranges through Idaho and Montana. The .2 mile short hike to the lookout/ ranger station is well worth it. Friendly ranger answered any questions and gave me a tip for a wonderful hike to get a view of Papoose Lake. From the Heavens Gate Vista parking lot the Boise hiking trail descends slightly into a wonderland of mountain meadows filled with wildflowers and beautiful rock outcroppings. The 1 1/2 mile hike to Papoose Lake is filled with amazing views the entire way. Make the walk to the far end of Papoose Lake past a high rocky mountaintop and you are rewarded with panoramic views east and west toward Oregon and Washington as well as Montana. There's a campground and facilities to bring your horse. Very cool place!!!

My family and I visited the area in March of 2014 and May 2013 and it was worth the drive each time. Beautiful views of Hell's Canyon, absolutely breathtaking!

A short car ride and even shorter trail takes you to a spectacular view of the Hells Canyon Wilderness. A must see if you are in the Riggins area (incorrectly identified as a Weiser landmark)

The spectacular panoramic view of Hells Canyon from the lookout is absolutely awesome. You drive 17 miles up a steep, narrow unpaved road (an experience initself), then hike less than 1/2 mile. From Riggins, take Rte. 95 south one mile to Seven Devils Road (National Forest Road 517). A great thing to do on a sunny, clear day with someone you love.