2013 Map of Smiths Ferry

About this map

The North Fork Payette River carves a deep, winding canyon through this portion of the Boise National Forest, serving as the central corridor for the settlement of Smiths Ferry. This area represents a critical passage through the high-elevation terrain of central Idaho, where narrow valley floors like Round Valley provided rare opportunities for early homesteading and road development. The presence of Tripod Reservoir and its accompanying Tripod Reservoir Public Fishing Area highlights the mid-century focus on water management and recreation in the national forest system. The surrounding peaks, including Cougar Mtn and the North Fork Range, hem in a network of drainage creeks such as Chipps Cr and Bacon Cr, which feed the main river artery. Roadways like Packer John Rd and Smiths Ferry Dr follow the natural contours of the land, tracing paths established by early settlers and forest rangers.