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Payette, S. Fork - 4 - The Staircase Run
Payette, S. Fork, Idaho, US |
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4 - The Staircase Run (Deer Creek turnout to Banks)
| Usual Difficulty | IV (for normal flows) |
|---|---|
| Length | 4.5 Miles |
Entrance to Staircase
Entrance to Staircase
Photo of Upper Staircase by Gary Wilson taken 09/05/03
Gauge Information
| Name | Range | Difficulty | Updated | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Payette; South Fork at Staircase | ||||
| virtual-6518 | 800 - 10000 cfs | IV | 01h00m | 0 cfs (rc= -0.1 ) |
River Description
There are about 8 rapids along this stretch with several being big and long. Staircase Rapid on a left hand bend is the most notable. The Banks Lowman Road is next to the river through this canyon, so all rapids are easily scouted from the road.
Take Out: Banks is at the confluence of the SF Payette and the NF Payette. There are large access areas.
Put in: The Banks-Lowman Road follows the the SF Payette, so boaters can launch anywhere that is convenient. The main rapids start below Deer Creek and there are some good turnouts and access near there. There may be easier launching areas upstream near the middle fork confluence which provide a few scenic miles of riffles.
Other Information Sources:
Vince's Whitewater Page.
Idaho Whitewater Association
Editors
NWRI - Payette, S. Fork 4 - The Staircase Run (mobile)