Payette River Scenic Byway brims with a variety of outdoor adventure opportunities. During summer months the river provides a haven of river running, tubing, and fishing for those who want to get wet, or thrilling views of whitewater, waterfalls, and riparian wildlife for sightseers. If larger bodies of water are more your style, Cascade Reservoir and Payette Lake abound with beaches, boat docks, and fishing areas. Campgrounds and picnic areas abound along the byway, so don't feel pressured about doing it all in one day.
Rafting on the North Fork of the Payette River (ID) [1]
When it comes to river running, Payette River consists of several basic areas. The main branch consists of Class III rapids and below, making it a perfect place for beginners or as a warm-up. You'll find some great play waves on the main river, too. South Fork's most notable feature is the Class IV Staircase, but plenty of other technical sections of rapids tempt the river runner along this stretch. The difficulty and thrill is ratcheted up even further with a variety of Class IV rapids on the Canyon section of South Fork. The North Fork is reserved for experts. With fifteen miles of steady Class V, kayakers and rafters test themselves in a dangerous and thrilling playground.
Enjoy the lakes along Payette River Scenic Byway and try to beat the state record for coho salmon, which was set in Lake Cascade. Smallmouth bass, yellow perch, rainbow and brown trout, and bullhead catfish stock the lake as well. Windsurfers and sailboat captains navigate Lake Cascade, taking advantage of constant winds along the surface. Motorboats and personal watercrafts also populate the lakes, pulling water-skiers and wake-boarders along behind them. Relax on a beach between swims and have a barbecue in the evening as the sun sets over the water to round out a perfect day.
