Rafting, Kayaking, & Canoeing

Payette River Basin Water Trails

Water trails are boat routes suitable for canoes, rafts, paddleboards, kayaks, and motorized watercraft. Like pedestrian, equestrian and bicycle trails, water trails are recreational corridors between destinations.

Water trail amenities include boat launches, day-use sites, fishing access, and camping areas.

The Payette River Water Trails vary from short routes along river sections to loops around lakes; from relaxing flat-water to intense rapids and whitewater.

Rafting and kayaking is a staple in Valley County. With some of the highest rated whitewater in the country, along with several calm stretches for those looking for an easy afternoon float, there is ample water to challenge the adventurer in everyone.

Choose from a guided trip (complete with equipment and lunch) or strike out on your own. Raft rentals are available from several companies throughout the area – just be sure you keep water safety a top priority!

The whitewater adventure season typically runs from late spring to early fall depending on the water levels.

And don’t miss Kelly’s Whitewater Park, the first of its kind in Idaho! A whitewater playground for kayakers, canoers, rafters, tubers and stand up paddle boarders, this park set in the heart of Cascade, Idaho, stretches 1,800 feet along the Payette River.

Explore Valley County Water Recreation References

Boating & Water Recreation map application was created to stream information to the public, including boating references, no-wake zones and parks or campsites around Cascade & Payette Lakes.

Rafting | Kayaking Quick Links:

• Payette River Water Trail Flyer
• Cascade Raft Company
• H2O Idaho
• Hells Canyon Raft Inc.
• Kelly’s Whitewater Park
• Salmon Raft
• Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association