When is the best time for an Idaho whitewater rafting trip? It's a question we are often asked, and our team of river professionals is here to give you some points to consider when choosing a time for your whitewater rafting trip. The Payette River rafting season generally runs from early to mid-May to the first week of September and each part of the season offers some unique benefits. Let’s look at a few time frames:

Early season (May 1^st to about June 15^th)

The first part of the whitewater rafting season can offer the thrills and challenges of high water as the temperatures start climbing and mountain snow starts melting. No two years are the same as far as how high the water rises and how long the elevated flows will last. “Depending on how the snow melts, we can see river levels fluctuate dramatically in the spring,” explains Cascade Raft & Kayak’s river manager, Kenneth. “It’s always an exciting time to be on the water.” This is especially true for the more adventurous class IV whitewater rafting trips on the South Fork of the Payette, so if you are a thrill-seeker, this is your time! The early season can also feature chilly water temps as most of the river flows are just a few days away from the snowy mountains. Not to worry, though, because the rafting outfitters near Boise provide their whitewater rafting guests with complimentary wetsuits, thermal jackets and neoprene river shoes. If you are looking for a more moderate level of whitewater rafting excitement at this time of year, you’ll have a great time on the Main Payette or North Fork Cabarton stretch. Even at higher flows, these sections are splashy and family friendly. As an added benefit, the early season can be less busy than the main part of summer, so you are likely to find a little more space in the parking lots and on the river.



Best time for: intense whitewater and fewer crowds

Potential trade-offs: colder water and less predictable weather

Summer, Summer, Summer (June 15^th to August 15^th)

There’s a reason that this is the whitewater rafting and kayaking high season: it’s awesome! In general, water levels and weather have stabilized by this time, school is out, and summer is in full swing. River temperatures in June are still going to be cooler, but as the season continues, temperatures on the Cabarton section of the North Fork of the Payette as well as the Main Payette climb toward 65 degrees or better. The water that feeds the North Fork and subsequently flows into the Main Payette at Banks, Idaho comes from the top of Lake Cascade, which is a long, shallow lake that warms quickly in the summer sun. Water on the South Fork of the Payette is natural flow that is supplemented by a release from the Deadwood Reservoir. The Deadwood River flows into the South Fork just yards downstream of the put-in point for the full day South Fork Canyon run, but its water comes from the bottom of the reservoir, so it stays cooler all summer. These two reservoirs are a major boon for whitewater rafters and kayakers on the Payette River—they ensure super-fun, consistent flows throughout the season. What’s best about this time frame? Warm days, long evenings, great water levels, iconic river experiences. Of course, that draws a lot of people to the river, so launch points can be crowded, especially on weekends. If you are headed out for some private whitewater rafting and kayaking, you might want to time your trip to miss the mid-day rush at the Cabarton or Banks parking areas. If you are rafting with one of the fabulous Payette River raft trip outfitters, those logistics will be taken care of for you—parking, shuttles, gear, etc. The summer atmosphere on the river is energetic, fast-paced, friendly and fun. There are new friends to be found, feats to be celebrated (start practicing that elegant swan dive off the bow right now), and memories to be made.

Best time for: warm water, consistent river levels, hot summer sunshine, tanning, good clean river fun

Potential trade-offs: crowded put-ins and take-outs, sunburn possibilities

Late Season (August 15^th to September 10^th)

Don’t give up on summer yet! This is also a great time to go whitewater rafting and kayaking and there are some benefits to waiting until (or returning for) the second half of August and into early September. Water levels are still good—historically the Bureau of Reclamation and Payette River Watershed Council keep the Deadwood River flowing until the last weekend of August, so while there might be a minor decrease in the natural flow, the water levels don’t change much until the release is discontinued. But if you are looking to raft or kayak the class IV whitewater of the South Fork, be sure to make your plans before August winds down. Warm water on the Main Payette and the Cabarton section? You bet—it’s been baking in the summer sun for months now, so it’s comfortable for a long float next to your river craft or dipping in and out of all day long, and it will stay that way well into September. Even after the Deadwood Reservoir release is reduced, water levels on the Main Payette and Cabarton are great. Many schools have started by mid-August, so it can be a little less crowded in and around the river. Though weekends will be reminiscent of the mid-summer energy, late August and early September often feature lovely warm days and a little slower pace. 

Best time for: warm water, relaxing pace, summer-like afternoon temperatures

Potential trade-offs: decreasing water levels

Hope these general descriptions help you decide what is most important to you as you plan your Idaho whitewater rafting trip. No matter the time of year, the Payette River delivers exciting whitewater rafting and kayaking near Boise, Idaho. If you have questions about river conditions, water levels, or what to expect, call a local raft trip outfitter. They love rafting and they are always happy to help you find the best whitewater rafting trip for you and your crew. Memories are waiting!