Feel the Rush
Bear Valley Rafting
For over three decades, Bear Valley Rafting has been a trusted name
for those looking for whitewater adventure on Idaho's Payette River. For owner Phil White, it’s more than a whitewater obsession, it’s a way of life.
A short 45-minute drive from the Boise airport up Hwy 55 will lead you to Banks, ID – the confluence of the North & South fork of the Payette, where the white water magic happens. Nestled in the beautiful Boise National Forest, Bear Valley Rafting traverses the river with ease in a way only those who love the rushing water know how.
From May through Mid-September, the Bear Valley team is ready to take you down the Payette in exhilarating fashion, giving you a unique view of one of Idaho’s most beautiful rivers.
Splashing Waves
Sprinkled with class II rapids (fun waves) and class III rapids (moderate, irregular waves), the North Fork and Main Payette offer the perfect mixture of excitement and tranquility. Enjoy the spray of the famous Idaho whitewater and relax on sandy beaches as you make your way down the river.
Thrill Seekers
You’ll want to check out the South Fork, full of class III & IV rapids. Breathtaking granite walls and Ponderosa pine surround you as you navigate big rapids like Gateway, S-Turn, and the famous Staircase, a quarter-mile-long class IV rapid.
Two of us had never been rafting before. What an amazing time. All of the staff was very friendly. Our guide, Jeremy was great. WHAT A WILD RIDE, LOVED IT. Would highly recommend.
– Randy Peterson
Bear Valley Rafting is a SWITA premium member. Thanks for helping us spread the word about the best of Southwest Idaho!
Passion From the Start
Owner Phil White was hooked after his first whitewater trip and quickly joined Bear Valley Rafting. Starting as a safety kayaker, he soon became a regular raft guide — returning to roam the Payette River year after year. Phil’s passion for rafting led him to the owner-operator role he’s currently in.
Over 30 years of experience on the Payette makes Bear Valley Rafting the obvious choice for your rafting and kayaking adventure. Experienced, licensed guides certified in First Aid/CPR means you can easily focus on all aspects of the experience – the fun, the views, and the rushing of the river.
Take a solo trip, grab a friend, or bring the family – there’s something for everyone!
