FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 13247500 (Payette River nr Horseshoe Bend), not a guidebook average. At a typical 2,500 cfs, a raft drifts about 4.5 mph here. Higher flow speeds you up; skinny water slows you down. Kayaks run faster than the current, tubes slower. Optional fishing adds 35 minutes per mile.
The Payette River (Banks) listing covers 11 river miles across 2 access-to-access stretches (Class III, Class II–III). Times in the table are typical raft hours at that reference flow. Open the live calculator for today's CFS, sunset take-out, water temperature, and rain/UV at the put-in.
See today's Payette River (Banks) float time
Float stretches on the Payette River (Banks)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Banks → Beehive Bend | 5 mi | Class II–III | ~1 hr 7 min | Upper Main. Payette River Pass parking. Not a tube float. Bennett's Rock is the first real drop. |
| Beehive Bend → Horseshoe Bend boat ramp | 6 mi | Class III | ~1 hr 20 min | Mixmaster and the rest of the Lower Main. Rafts and kayaks. Scout or go with a guide if it's new water. |
How we time this river
Speed scales with discharge using hydraulic geometry v ∝ Q0.34, calibrated to this gauge. That is why a 1,000 cfs afternoon is a different day than 3,000 cfs runoff. Always scout, wear a PFD, and check Idaho Fish and Game for closures. Gauge page: USGS 13247500.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Banks to Beehive Bend on the Payette River (Banks)?
About 1 hr 7 min in a raft at a typical 2500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Upper Main. Payette River Pass parking. Not a tube float. Bennett's Rock is the first real drop.
How long does it take to float Beehive Bend to Horseshoe Bend boat ramp on the Payette River (Banks)?
About 1 hr 20 min in a raft at a typical 2500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Mixmaster and the rest of the Lower Main. Rafts and kayaks. Scout or go with a guide if it's new water.
What USGS gauge is used for Payette River (Banks) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 13247500 (Payette River nr Horseshoe Bend) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 2500 cfs drift of about 4.5 mph.
Is the Payette River (Banks) a good tube float?
Tubes lag the current (we use a 0.72× speed multiplier). This listing includes Class III or harder water — rafts and experienced paddlers, not tubes.