Middle Fork Payette River on the Boise National Forest in Idaho

About three hours from Boise, Idaho north along Highway 55 is the Middle Fork Payette River Banks is a major access point for whitewater rafting and kayaking where the North Fork and the South Fork of the Payette River merge. Both private and commercial rafters launch from this site to enjoy a few hour trip on the river encountering mostly class one and two rapids. Turning east at Banks, we will then follow Highway 17, also known as the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway, 9 miles to the turnoff of the Middle Fork of the Payette River road heading to Crouch. From Crouch we travel north along Forest road 698 known as the Middle Fork Payette River Road, and discover seven campgrounds and one cabin all located within a beautiful forest canopy. Many of the campsites are nestled next to a creek or river providing optimal trout fishing opportunities. The Middle Fork of the Payette River is often enjoyed by tubers and rafters on hot summer days. There are plenty of nearby trails open to motorized and non-motorized users. Be sure to obtain a free motor vehicle use map from either the Boise National Forest web page or at a ranger station. Further information is available by calling Boise National Forest at area code 208-373-4007.