 |
|
||||
Constructed between 1948 and 1950, this dam is located approximately 6 miles East of Bliss, Idaho. It is part of Idaho Powers 17 hydro-electric plants along the Snake River and its tributaries. Idaho Power maintains a boat launch at the dam allowing access to the Bliss Reservoir for hunting, fishing and water recreation. The ramp is concrete and in fair condition. Two floating docks and a small day use park adjoin the ramp area. The parking area was leveled and enlarged in December 2007 and provides ample boat parking. There is a larger day use park approximately 300 yards from the ramp area. There is also access to a 4 wheel drive road that will take you above Peg Leg Rapid, about 3/4 of a mile downstream from the dam. |
 |
There are no camping facilities at this site. However, there is a seldom, if ever, used basketball court. Bliss dam is the primary jet boat launch site for access to the reservoir and the section of the Snake River referred to as the Hagerman Reach. From the Bliss dam, the reservoir continues approximately 5 miles, to about 1 mile bellow the Shoestring Road Bridge, before returning to a river environment. From the Bridge there is approximately 6 more miles of flowing river until the next dam, Lower Salmon Falls. This stretch contains several class II and small class III rapids as well as some shallow and technical stretches of water. Having good skills at reading the water for hazards is strongly recommended on this section of river, which has been described by many jet boaters as “Bonny”. There are a few shiny rocks as a testament to this statement. Most of the water is readable, however the area immediately above the Shoestring bridge is wide, shallow, confusing water with only a couple slots to slip your boat through which may not be obvious. Use extreme caution through this area. |
As with most of the Snake River, water levels can fluctuate dramatically in short amounts of time on this part of the river at the whim of Idaho Power Company. Typical daily flows in the summer can fluctuate between 5,000cfs and 8,000cfs. Boats over 20’ should avoid the run at flows under 6,000cfs but smaller boats are known to run at flows under 5,000cfs. The reservoir area is popular for duck hunting and fishing. Fish include small mouth bass, trout, and sturgeon. How to get there: Boise - The Bliss Dam is approximately 85 miles from Boise. Heading East on I-84 take the King Hill Exit #129 and turn left over the interstate for 1 mile. Turn Right on Henderson Hill Road and follow for approximately 3 1/2 miles. Turn right at the sign the says “Bliss Power Plant”. You will go over the interstate, then some train tracks before you drop into the Canyon. Twin Falls - The launch is approximately 34 miles West of Twin Falls. You can access either by the Bliss exit 141 or the next exit west of Bliss, # 137. You want onto Pioneer Road and follow it until you reach the “Bliss Power Plant” sign then turn left. Follow to the river. |
 |
 |
The area directly above the Showstring Bridge is very wide, shallow and rocky with only a couple routes. Use extreme caution.
© 2007 Web Orison Communications |