A drive along the Payette River Scenic Byway can be very distracting for motorists. Rather than watching the road, you may be more inclined to watch the river as it crashes and tumbles its way over the rocks through the narrow river valley. The best thing to do is take advantage of the occasional pull-offs that allow you to view wilder parts of the river and treat your senses to the sight, sound, smell, and rhythm of Idaho's famous whitewater.
Enjoy the scenic drive along the river through the Boise and Payette National Forests before arriving high in a long and exceedingly picturesque mountain valley dotted with the resort towns of Cascade, McCall, and New Meadows. Between the thunderous roll of the whitewater and the quiet serenity of the valley landscapes, you will find a thrilling adventure as you travel this mountain byway.
Birding Expeditions along the Payette River
Rivers and Lakes Along the Payette River
Payette River Scenic Byway in the Winter