Following the narrow Payette River Valley, Idaho’s Route 55 connects towns of McCall and Eagle. Just north of Boise, this two lane road marks the beginning of the 112 mile Payette River Scenic Byway. The byway connects a series of small resort towns, separated with long stretches of pure and wild Idaho landscape. Winding through forestland, passed towering mountains, recreation lakes, and deep river valleys, the byway offers access to a mild or wild Payette River, a string of national forest campsites, and promising fishing holes. This section of the North Fork of the Payette is particularly noted for 15 miles of Class V rapids.
     One notable structure you won’t miss as you head northward, the largest single span arch bridge in the state. Added to the National Register of Historic Places, the Rainbow Bridge is recognized for its engineering design. The 410 foot span shows a 1933 effort to blend together the bridge and surrounding landscape.
     With a fresh layer of snow, this area takes on a greater majestic look. Resort towns and ski areas gear up in the fall for skiers, snowmobilers, and snowboarders. Hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails and miles of cross-country ski tracks make this an all-season wonderland.