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A top view of the Payette River running along the Payette River Scenic Byway, surrounded by trees.
South of Cougar Mountain Lodge, near the Payette River. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
a view of a river lined with trees and a few houses in the distance
Payette River. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
a couple with a baby sitting in the grass with some boats on a lake in the background
Legacy Park, McCall. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
a mountain top view of a forest of trees with a lake and mountains in the distance
Brundage Mountain Resort. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
Side view of a bridge crossing over a river lined with trees.
Rainbow Bridge. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
a car driving down a winding road running alongside a river, surrounded by trees
Highway 55. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
a bridge crossing over a river lined with trees
Rainbow Bridge. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
a person running on a trail through a forest
Smith's Ferry, overlooking the Payette River, in the Boise National Forest. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.

Payette River Scenic Byway

Find whitewater adventures and outdoor thrills along the Payette River Scenic Byway. Begin this route west of Boise (in Eagle) and follow the Payette River through the Boise and Payette National Forests. This drive is packed with stunning scenery year-round and plenty of opportunities to hop out for some fun in the fresh air.

Length

114 miles
184 km

Time Icon

Time

2 hours, 29 minutes

Region

Southwest Idaho

When to Visit

Year-round

31 Byways. 31 Ways to Be Inspired.

A variety of scenic, natural, historic, recreational, archaeological and cultural experiences can be found on Idaho’s 31 scenic byways. View the video to get a taste of the adventures that await you, and start planning your next road trip.

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Road Trip Tips

Turn-by-Turn Directions: Beginning west of Boise, head north on Idaho 55 to the junction of U.S. 95 in New Meadows.

Full services in: Boise, Eagle, Cascade, Donnelly, McCall and New Meadows.

Partial Services in: Horseshoe Bend

Motorcycle Route: Yes

Full services: When gas, food and lodging are available
Partial services: When gas and a few other facilities are available

Nearby Adventures

From picturesque state parks to vibrant local craft breweries, there’s plenty to discover along and around the Payette River Scenic Byway.

Download Before You Hit the Road

Start planning your epic Idaho road trip with the help of these free travel publications.

Scenic Byways Brochure

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State Highway Map

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Travel Tips

Need some ideas for your next Idaho road trip? Check out these travel tips and start planning your adventure.

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