Partners’ Equity, Income Allocations and Cash Distributions Allocations of Net Income (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Capital Unit [Line Items]
General partner interest in net income	$ 1,250	$ 971	$ 1,210
General partner incentive distribution	15,519	11,181	6,737
Total general partner interest in net income attributable to HEP	$ 16,769	$ 12,152	$ 7,947