Payette River, North Fork - Smith's Ferry to Banks

Description

Welcome to big boy/girl kayaking.  This is it!  This section of the north fork is famous for it's whitewater and ability to either hand you a wonderful time or one of the worst times of your life.  The rapids begin just below the putin and end just above the take out.  If you like long continuous technical whitewater then this run is for you.  Many Boise boaters break this into 3 sections:

• Upper ~ 5 miles
• Middle ~ 5 miles
• Lower ~ 5 miles

The lowest section is closest to Boise and is generally considered the easiest so it sees the most action.  The whole canyon has been successfully run though, even at high water.  Be warned though that many boaters have dislocated shoulders and taken brutal swims here due to the force of the water and big water characteristics on a smaller river channel.

If this is your first time down it's recommended you go with a local and follow the correct lines until you get your feet under you.