What is Hells Gate State Park like?
Located in Lewiston, Hells Gate State Park is part of a Idaho disc golf scene that now runs to 100 registered courses. It plays 9 holes, par 27, across 1,917 ft — an average of about 213 feet a hole. That is short enough that a putter and a mid-range will cover most of the round.
The terrain is wooded/hilly — wooded fairways with real elevation change, which puts the emphasis on shot shaping in three dimensions. Elevation compounds every mistake: an uphill approach plays longer than the sign says, and a downhill tee shot carries much further than expected.
ThrowSpot rates the course forgiving overall, making it a good first course or a relaxed round. Shorter holes and open landing zones mean errant throws are usually recoverable, which is exactly what a newer player needs. Most groups finish in about 45 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to Hells Gate State Park?
For a course like this, a putter and one or two mid-ranges covers the majority of shots. Leave the high-speed drivers in the car. There is rarely room to use them, and a controlled mid-range will out-score a driver you cannot place.
If you are not sure what matches your arm speed, the disc selector converts your throwing distance into a speed ceiling and specific mold recommendations. It is also worth reading the wind calculator before you play on a breezy day.
Cost and access
This course is free to play, like the majority of the 7,008 courses in the ThrowSpot directory. There is no booking system and no check-in — turn up and play. Most park courses are open dawn to dusk; hours can change seasonally, so it is worth checking locally before a very early or late round.
Amenities at Hells Gate State Park
Amenity information comes from PDGA course records and may not reflect recent changes. If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.
Other disc golf courses near Hells Gate State Park
More disc golf in Lewiston
Lewiston has 2 PDGA-listed courses. Others worth a round:
| Course | Holes | Difficulty | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunset Park Disc Golf | 9 | Intermediate | Free |
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is Hells Gate State Park?
Hells Gate State Park has 9 holes with a total par of 27. The course measures 1,917 ft, averaging about 213 feet per hole.
Is Hells Gate State Park free to play?
Yes. Hells Gate State Park is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is Hells Gate State Park good for beginners?
Yes. It is rated beginner difficulty, with wooded fairways with real elevation change and forgiving landing zones, which makes it a reasonable first course.
How long does it take to play Hells Gate State Park?
About 45 minutes for a typical group on 9 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is Hells Gate State Park located?
Hells Gate State Park is in Lewiston, Idaho, at coordinates 46.35071, -117.04460. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to Hells Gate State Park?
For this layout, a putter and one or two mid-ranges covers most shots. Leave the high-speed drivers in the car. There is rarely room to use them, and a controlled mid-range will out-score a driver you cannot place.