Payette River Scenic Byway
Payette River Scenic Byway is a high-mountain route through Idaho from Boise to McCall, offering rapid river gorges, alpine forests, and access to whitewater and fishing.
Learn More
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Northwest U.S. |
| Subregion | Pacific Northwest |
| Country | United States |
| State | Idaho |
| County | Valley County |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 44.9167 |
| Longitude | -116.1133 |
| Maps |
12:54 PM LOCAL TIMEThe Payette River Scenic Byway traces the course of the Payette River across central Idaho, linking Boise to McCall and the northern Payette Lake region. This drive cuts through dramatic gorge-canyon terrain, emerges onto high-level forest plateaus, and dips into river valleys dotted with trailheads and resort villages. Along the way you'll encounter wild rapids suited to beginner and intermediate whitewater, as well as calmer stretches for fishing and tubing. Key access points include Cascade for dam and reservoir views, New Meadows for trailheads and forestry, and the McCall area for alpine lakes and mountain recreation.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:46 AM