One of the many perks of working in Hells Canyon along the Snake River is the extraordinary abundance of wildlife scientists get to witness. The Fall Chinook salmon project has brought current and former employees into some of the most breathtaking terrain in the region—and with it, unforgettable encounters with the canyon’s wild residents. This year’s photo contest highlights some of those moments, beautifully captured by members of the team. 

One of Tobyn Rhodes’ favorite sights each season is the arrival of newborn bighorn lambs. Their appearance marks a special time in the canyon, and Tobyn’s photos of lambs and yews perched on cliffs below the Salmon River showcase that magic perfectly. 

Featured Photos 

• Bighorn Ram above Cherry Creek: 
Captured by Alexis Litty during deepwater redd surveys, this striking ram stands proudly against the rugged fall landscape. 

• Bear at the Water’s Edge: 
Photographed by Brandon Falish in the upper reach of the Snake River below Hells Canyon Dam and the Seven Devils Mountains, this bear was spotted drinking during cooperative work with Idaho Power. 

• Lazuli Bunting at Heller Bar: 
Rowan Doyle caught this vibrant little songbird at the Heller Bar boat ramp—a colorful surprise along the shoreline. 

• Mountain Goat in the Upper Reach: 
Tobyn Rhodes photographed this sure‑footed climber below Hells Canyon Dam and the Seven Devils Mountains while conducting cooperative fieldwork with Idaho Power. 

• Bighorn Lambs and Yews: 
Another stunning submission from Tobyn, depicting lambs and yews navigating the cliffs in the middle reach below the Salmon River. 

• Scenic picture of Hells Canyon:
Brad Bickford took this scenic picture with a sUAS (drone) of Hells Canyon, in the Fall of 2023. In the bottom of the picture, you can see one of our USGS work boats pulled onto shore. USGS scientists are conducting redd surveys for spawning Fall Chinook salmon.

These photos remind us of the unique beauty, diversity, and daily wonders of working in Hells Canyon. 

Thank you, Tobyn Rhodes, for sharing these beautiful photos—and to all who contributed to this issue’s contest!