Payette River Scenic Byway
Places to Visit

  • Boise National Forest (ID)

    Created in 1908, this national forest contains ponderosa pines, Douglas firs, and plenty of opportunity for recreation.

    Location:

    Located in central Idaho, near Boise.
  • Brundage Mountain Recreation Area

    Brundage Mountain Recreation Area (ID)

    Goose Lake Road takes the winter and summer recreationist to outdoor destination such as: Goose Creek Falls Trailhead, Brundage Mountain, Granite Lake, Granite Mountain, Twin Lakes, and even further into the magnificent Idaho mountains.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    This recreation area is located on the northern end of the Byway, 5 miles from the road.
  • Cascade

    Cascade (ID)

    With close proximity to mountains and lakes, Cascade offers the outdoorsman (or woman) access to fishing, rafting, skiing, and much more!

    Location:

    Located approximately 75 miles north of Boise on Highway 55
  • Central Idaho Cultural Center

    Central Idaho Cultural Center (ID)

    The four-acre museum site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps project. The site's historic structures are surrounded by shaded picnic areas and interpretive displays.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    This cultural center is located on the north end of the Byway.
  • Farm-to-Market and Elo Roads

    Farm-to-Market and Elo Roads (ID)

    The agricultural and Finnish culture of the area is preserved on this road. In addition visitors can see the turn-of-the-century town of Roseberry featuring the Long Valley Museum. Also visible is the Finnish Church and Cemetery.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Located on SH 55 near the north end of the Byway.
  • Hembrey Creek Wetlands

    Hembrey Creek Wetlands (ID)

    Numerous types of migratory birds and waterfowl can be seen in their natural nesting habitat in these wetlands. Ospreys return year after year to the same nests to raise their families. In this area, nests are visible on transmission towers.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Located on SH 55.
  • Historic Eagle

    Historic Eagle (ID)

    This pedestrian-friendly district is home to Heritage Park, the Eagle Historical Museum and Eagle Drug Store, which were established in 1906. Several cafes, gift, and antique shops are all within walking distance of the district.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    0.5 miles off of the route
  • Historic Meadows Valley

    Historic Meadows Valley (ID)

    This small valley is filled with memories of a time when logging and ranching were a bountiful way of life. The mountains of Central Idaho are still rich with beauty, wildlife, and the warmth of a lifestyle we dream of having again someday.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    This valley is located on the north end of the Byway.
  • Lake Cascade

    Lake Cascade (ID)

    Accessible from Cascade and Donnelly, Lake Cascade provides an opportunity for a wide variety of recreation, including fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Numerous day use and camping facilities are available for all types of camping.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Located along the Byway, near the northern end.

  • New Meadows (ID)

    This charming small town northwest of McCall offers an 18-hole golf course, Zim's Hot Springs Resort and spectacular pastoral views.

    Location:

    New Meadows is the terminus of the Byway, on SR-55.