North Fork Payette River

The North Fork Payette River winds roughly 113 miles southward through the western mountains of Idaho, rising in the Salmon River Mountains, passing alpine lakes and Long Valley before reaching its confluence near Banks. It travels through dense forests, broad valleys dotted with wetlands and lakes, and narrow canyons where the gradient steepens dramatically alongside Highway 55. Upstream stretches feature calm meanders and clear waters ideal for relaxed paddling, canoeing and wildlife viewing, while mid-river sections deliver moderate rapids suited to intermediate rafting and kayaking for families and skilled boaters. Downstream the river becomes one of North America’s most demanding continuous Class V whitewater runs, drawing expert kayakers from around the world, alongside trout fishing, swimming and riverside picnicking at accessible spots.