The Upper Main Payette offers 7 miles of exciting Class III+ whitewater easily accessed from Highway 55. Notable rapids include Harvey's, Turn-Out, Mixmaster, and the famous Landslide Rapid formed by a 1997 flood. This popular section provides thrilling rapids with good road access near Boise.
Snapshot
Important information for this section of river
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Water Level
FAQ: What's the current water level for Main Payette - Banks to Beehive Bend?
3,120 CFS
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FAQ: What's the ideal range for this section of river?
3,000 – 12,000 CFS
Common Questions
What paddlers most often want to know about Main Payette - Banks to Beehive Bend.
What class of rapids does the Main Payette River from Banks to Beehive Bend have?
The Main Payette from Banks to Beehive Bend runs Class III+–IV, featuring continuous action through rapids like Harvey's, Turn-Out, Mixmaster, and the famous Landslide Rapid. It is one of Idaho's most popular day trips for intermediate to advanced paddlers.
What is Landslide Rapid on the Main Payette River?
Landslide Rapid is a Class IV drop on the Main Payette formed by a 1997 landslide that permanently reshaped the river channel. It is the most technically demanding and well-known rapid on this section, requiring a clean line to avoid the chaotic boulder field.
Do I need a permit to run the Main Payette River from Banks to Beehive Bend?
No permit is required to run the Main Payette. The river is easily accessed from Highway 55 near Banks, Idaho with multiple put-in and take-out options.
What are the ideal flow levels for the Main Payette River?
The Main Payette runs best between 3,000 and 12,000 CFS. Flows of 4,000–7,000 CFS offer the most balanced Class III+–IV experience; above 8,000 CFS Landslide Rapid and the other major drops become significantly more powerful.
When is the best time to run the Main Payette River?
The Main Payette peaks during snowmelt from May through early July. It is dam-influenced and can remain runnable into August and September at lower flows, though the character shifts toward Class III at lower water levels.
Weather Forecast
What's the daily forecast at the put-in for Main Payette - Banks to Beehive Bend?