Payette, Middle Fork,

West Fork Bridge to upstream of Trail Creek

Usual Difficulty	IV (may vary with level)
Length	3 Miles

Gauge Information

Name	Range	Difficulty	Updated	Level
MIDDLE FORK PAYETTE RIVER NR CROUCH ID
usgs-13237920	600 - 3000 cfs	IV	01h08m	127 cfs (rc= -0.2 )

River Description

Lat/Longitude data are very approximate.

This section is notably different than most of the big water runs of the Payette and Salmon runs in Idaho. Pool drops and creek-style paddling characterize this run.

WHEN TO RUN: The run is best done in the spring, while run-off provides higher flows (~800 - 1,500 cfs). Best in Late April - Early July. The Middle Fork relies totally on snow-pack and run-off.

HOW TO GET THERE: From Boise take state hwy 55 north about 32 miles to Banks. Turn left on the Banks-Lowman Hwy. Follow this for about 8 miles and turn left at the sign for Crouch. Follow this (Middle Fork Road) for about 18 miles to the West Fork Bridge. Leave a shuttle near Trail Creek Campground.

WHAT ELSE IS IN THE AREA: LOTS! The Payette South Fork (Canyon, Swirly Canyon and Staircase runs), Payette North Fork (Cabarton and Smiths Ferry-Banks class V sections), as well as the Payette Main. During the spring these are generally running high and fast.