This Idaho Scenic Byway Is The Road Trip Of A Lifetime

The Payette River Scenic Byway in Idaho is a road trip that lets you experience both the natural beauty and small-town charm of the state. Starting in Horseshoe Bend, the route follows the Payette River through forested canyons, past the rafting spots near Banks, and on to Cascade and Lake Cascade State Park, before reaching the lakeside town of McCall. Along the way, you’ll find opportunities to stretch your legs at riverside parks, explore local shops and restaurants, and enjoy outdoor recreation in every season. It’s a route of a lifetime that combines scenic drives with easy stops, giving travelers a chance to enjoy Idaho at a relaxed pace.

Day 1: Boise To Horseshoe Bend And Banks

The journey begins in Eagle, just outside Boise, heading north on Highway 55. Your first stop is Horseshoe Bend, a small town nestled along the river. The local park is a great place to stroll the riverbank, watch the water sweep around the curve that inspired the town’s name, and take in the mountain views. You can also get out on the water for fishing or boating, and there are spots for grilling and picnicking along the river.

If you'd prefer to dine out, Horseshoe Bend offers a couple of local favorites. Corner Cafe Bar & Grill serves up hearty comfort food in a relaxed, casual setting, while Locking Horns Riverside Restaurant features everything from homestyle breakfasts to burgers, all with a view of the Payette River.

To extend your stay in the vicinity, head toward Banks, where the North and South Forks of the Payette River converge. In summer, rafting outfitters line the road, and you’ll often see groups gearing up for whitewater trips. If you’d like to join the fun, local tour companies offer guided trips on stretches of river ranging from beginner-friendly to adrenaline-pumping. In cooler months, simply pull over at roadside turnouts to watch the river thunder through the canyon.

For dinner, head back into Horseshoe Bend to Sonora Mexican Restaurant for fresh, authentic Mexican fare, then stay the night at Three Bears Inn near Banks in Crouch for a rustic, authentic experience in the heart of Boise County.

Day 2: Cascade And Lake Cascade State Park

Heading north, the byway brings you to Cascade, a lively town and gateway to Lake Cascade State Park. The lake’s blue waters are framed by forested hills and are popular for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding in summer. In fall, the aspen groves around the shoreline turn golden, while winter transforms the lake into a hub for ice fishing. The state park itself offers trails, boat ramps, picnic areas, and year-round camping, making it a perfect stop no matter the season.

After a morning by the lake, grab lunch at Reo's Pizza, a laid-back Cascade institution on Main Street that serves handmade pies piled high with toppings. From there, spend the afternoon exploring more of the lakefront or browsing through Cascade’s small-town shops.

In the evening, head to Checkpoint Tapas & Wine Bar for dinner. The menu highlights Spanish, French, and Italian dishes, paired perfectly with regional wines. For an overnight stay, Hotel NoBo offers modern amenities, including spacious suites, a pool, a hot tub, and complimentary breakfast, making it a cozy and convenient base in the heart of Cascade.

Day 3: Cascade To McCall Through Donnelly

From Cascade, continue north along the river toward Donnelly, a small community with a big outdoor spirit. Just outside town lies Tamarack Resort, which offers year-round activities, like mountain biking, ziplining, and scenic chairlift rides in summer, plus skiing and snowboarding in winter. The drive itself is beautiful, as the river alternates between wide, calm sections and tumbling rapids, with mountains pressing close to the road.

While in Donnelly, make time for a stop at Flight of Fancy Bakery & Coffee Shop, a cozy spot known for fresh sandwiches, bagels, croissants, danishes, and muffins. Along with its baked goods, the shop also sells jams, jellies, bath bombs, and handmade body products. If you’re visiting in the summer, you may also find food trucks lined up along Main Street, serving up barbecue, tacos, and other seasonal bites.

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in McCall, a resort town perched on the edge of Payette Lake. McCall is the crown jewel of the byway, with sandy beaches, a marina, and surrounding mountains perfect for hiking, biking, or skiing, depending on the season.

For dinner, head to Steamers Steak & Seafood, known for big portions and local charm, or try Salmon River Brewery, which pairs craft beer with pub favorites like burgers and wood-fired pizza. Stay overnight at one of McCall’s lakeside lodges, such as the Shore Lodge, or opt for a cozy cabin rental nearby.

The route technically ends a few miles up the road in New Meadows at the junction of US 95, so if you'd like to extend your stay, options in this area include a stop at Ponderosa State Park or a trip up to Brundage Mountain Resort for seasonal adventures and activities.

Discover Everything The Payette River Scenic Byway Has To Offer

The Payette River Scenic Byway is more than just a drive. It’s a journey through Idaho’s rivers, forests, and small towns, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the outdoors. By the time you reach McCall, with its lakeside boardwalk, marina, and charming downtown area, you’ll have passed the rushing rapids near Banks, the calm waters of Lake Cascade, and the quaint streets of Cascade. Each stop along this jam-packed three-day itinerary offers a simple, memorable experience, making the byway a road trip that leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve reached the end.