Payette River Company runs guided whitewater rafting trips on two exceptional sections of the South Fork Payette River — one of the most pristine and uncrowded mountain rivers in Idaho. No agriculture upstream, no development — just clean mountain water, rugged Idaho backcountry, and a natural hot springs on every single trip.
Whether you are looking for a family-friendly float through crystal clear water or a full day of Class IV whitewater, South Fork Payette River rafting with Payette River Company delivers an experience that is genuinely hard to find anywhere else in the state.
Payette River Company runs South Fork Payette River rafting trips on two sections, both with hot springs included. Every trip departs from our headquarters in Lowman — right at the put-in, no long shuttles, no wasted time.
The Kirkham Hot Springs section is the ideal choice for families, first-time rafters, and anyone looking for a scenic and accessible South Fork Payette River rafting experience. The section drains the back of the Sawtooth Mountains through pristine backcountry with no upstream agriculture — the water is remarkably clean and clear all season long.
The day features Class III rapids interspersed with calmer stretches, a soak at Kirkham Hot Springs, the jump rock, wildlife sightings, and a riverside lunch. Osprey, deer, and the occasional river otter are common on the Kirkham section.
After the take-out a PRC shuttle picks you up for the short ride back to headquarters — great bus tunes and cold beverages included. Back at headquarters Sean or Ginger presents a photo slideshow from the day.
$149 adults / $129 kids 12 & under. Minimum age 5. Departs 9:45am.
Also available as an afternoon half day trip — Kirkham Hot Springs Rafting — $65 adults / $49 kids 12 & under. Departs 4:30pm.
For guests looking for the most thrilling South Fork Payette River rafting the river has to offer, the Canyon section delivers. The Canyon is reservoir fed — consistent, reliable water levels all season long regardless of snowpack.
Twenty-five Class III and IV rapids, a stop at Pine Flats Hot Springs when conditions allow, a portage around Big Falls waterfall, and a riverside lunch make this one of the best full days of whitewater rafting in Idaho. The portage around Big Falls requires everyone to help carry the boat and equipment — the rocks can be slippery so take your time. Sean and your guides will be right there to help on the tricky spots.
After the take-out Sean presents a photo slideshow — shots he captured from his safety kayak while you were on the water. Cold beverages on the 20 minute shuttle ride home. Expect to be back at headquarters around 3:30pm.
$149 per person. Minimum age 12. Departs 9:45am.
Payette River Company has been running guided trips on the South Fork Payette since 2006. Sean and Ginger Glaccum are Idaho natives and owner-operators — Sean will most likely be on the water with you, and Ginger handles all reservations from the first call to the put-in.
This is small-batch South Fork Payette River rafting — small groups, experienced guides, and a river that sees far less traffic than busier Idaho whitewater destinations. If you are looking to get away from the crowds, the South Fork Payette is your river.
Payette River Company runs trips on four sections of the South Fork Payette. In addition to the Kirkham and Canyon sections we offer regularly, we occasionally run two specialty sections for groups looking for something truly off the beaten path.
The Grandjean Section is the highest section of the South Fork Payette River, starting deep in the Sawtooth Mountains and winding through remote backcountry with hot springs along the way. This section runs at higher spring flows only and is subject to closure due to wood hazards — making it a rare and memorable experience when conditions are right.
Swirly Canyon runs through a scenic gorge of polished rock walls, whirlpools, and eddy lines downstream from the Canyon section — quieter and more remote with its own hot springs stop.
Both sections run on a limited basis depending on water levels and conditions. Call Ginger at (208) 720-7039 to ask about availability.
South Fork Payette River rafting with Payette River Company is about 90 minutes from Boise and 2 hours from Sun Valley — making it one of the most accessible whitewater destinations in Idaho.
Planning your trip from Boise? Visit our Rafting Near Boise page for directions and everything you need to know.
Coming from Sun Valley or Ketchum? Our Rafting Near Sun Valley Idaho page has everything you need.
“Our full day float trip through the canyon was so much fun. Our guide was skilled, informative and entertaining. This was just the right balance of relaxation and adventure.” — TripAdvisor
“Really made the right choice with Payette River Company. A small operation truly dedicated to giving everyone a great experience. The staff is very well trained, skillful and fun.” — TripAdvisor
“This was my third trip down the South Fork with PRC and I see myself coming back every summer. Rapid after rapid, a hot springs stop and a great lunch. You won’t be disappointed.” — TripAdvisor
“Been rafting with PRC for years — not a summer goes by without a run down the Payette. Sean and Ginger are great people as are the staff. Highly recommended.” — TripAdvisor
Ready to get on the water? Book online, call or text Ginger at (208) 720-7039, or email ginger@payetterivercompany.com. Trips run daily May through September.