Flat Water Paddling in Boise, ID

The Boise area is known for its whitewater paddling, but there are dozens of rivers and lakes where flat water paddling, including canoeing and kayaking, are good bets, too. Favorite destinations include the Lower Payette River from Horseshoe Bend to Montour and the Middle Fork of the Payette River from the Boise National Forest boundary to the town of Crouch. The North Fork of the Payette River from Cascade to the Cabarton Bridge is an excellent full-day flat water float. Paddlers also like the Montour stretch across Black Canyon Reservoir for moonlight adventures. The Boise River through town is the perfect river for an afternoon float whether in a canoe, raft, or tube.

The McCall area has two flat water floats: one on the North Fork of the Payette River above Payette Lake, and the other below the lake toward Lake Cascade. Bear Valley Creek, about 90 miles northeast of Boise, is an excellent float in June and July, offering mountain scenery and excellent camping.

Retailers: Idaho River Sports