Whitewater Rafting In Idaho: South Fork Payette River

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I don’t really think amazing white water rafting rivers when I think of Idaho. And actually, other than beautiful scenery, desert, and potatoes, I never really knew what to think of Idaho. Now I know it’s a place I need to visit. Often. Other thanÂ than the lack of cell service and internet, IÂ wasÂ pretty enthralled. Particularly with the rafting.

The South Fork of the Payette River near Banks, ID offers some amazing scenery and a couple of class IV rapids. If you have the time and the interest, particularly if visiting in the summer, it is worth doing.

Since I wasn’t able to take my camera in the raft to get pictures of the velvety hills, tall timber, or astonishingly white sand bars, I’ll just share these two taken by Bear Valley Rafting Co.

This is probably what much of my experience was like.

a group of people in a raft — *Looking goofy in the front left*

This is how I remember most of it. 🙂

Sitting in the front was a blast, but we seemed to always be going through the rapids my side first! I was nervous in advance — it’s been nearly 15 years since I last rafted and I’m more accustomed to East Coast rivers — but it was nothing but fun once we were in the boat. And it turns out the designed-to-be disposable Nectar sunglasses I got in my last Cairn box were perfect for the trip (though not exactly my most stylishÂ look).

a picnic table with benches and a truck in the background — Bear Valley Rafting picnic area

Was impressed by Bear Valley Rafting too. Had a great guide who kept it lighthearted but safe. Their office location features a shady picnic area and the General Store next door has a fun little cafe with happy hour specials perfect for a post rafting toast.