Deadwood

Did this run, from reservoir to SF Payette confluence, August 2002 for the first time and then again August 8, 2004. Both times absolutely fantastic. Potaged 4x in '02 and 7 or 8x the other day. Point being, get as much local/recent info as possible and ALWAYS scout blind horizons or corners especially in sections where the rapids get heavy. As of Aug 8th, 2004 there is a very serious log hazard right around the corner from the big class V midway through the run in the IV+ runout rapid. This log is impossible to get around, over, or under at 1000cfs. It is huge and will probably be there for a while unless they release a few hundred more cfs. It is unlikely that you would see it from river level until too late. Also, there two new blowout rapids that will probably change significantly. Both are on the bottom half of the run, have created big pools above, conatin considerable gravel, rocks, trees and debris. The second one, about three miles from the takeout, is currently much worse with a highly constricted, steep channel on the far left and lots of dangerous wood. We walked twice here. Still a favorite of mine, we even saw a huge black bear in the section below the bridge that is one of the most fun continuous class IVish rapids I have ever paddled. One more thing, if you are looking for a shuttle driver stop in the Garden Valley Chevron station and ask Mike, he directed to me his unemployed friend Steve who was excited to ride up with us and return our car to the takeout for $20 and some Jim Beam.