FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 13246000 (NF Payette River nr Banks), not a guidebook average. At a typical 1,200 cfs, a raft drifts about 6.0 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 North Fork Payette (Cabarton) listing covers 16 river miles across 1 access-to-access stretch (Class IV–V). 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 North Fork Payette (Cabarton) float time
Float stretches on the North Fork Payette (Cabarton)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cabarton Bridge → Banks | 16 mi | Class IV–V | ~2 hr 40 min | Not a float trip. Steep, wooded, and famous for wrapping boats. Experienced whitewater crews only — or watch from the highway. |
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 13246000.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Cabarton Bridge to Banks on the North Fork Payette (Cabarton)?
About 2 hr 40 min in a raft at a typical 1200 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Not a float trip. Steep, wooded, and famous for wrapping boats. Experienced whitewater crews only — or watch from the highway.
What USGS gauge is used for North Fork Payette (Cabarton) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 13246000 (NF Payette River nr Banks) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 1200 cfs drift of about 6.0 mph.
Is the North Fork Payette (Cabarton) 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.