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Description
Lat/Longitude data are _very_ approximate.
Upper WH (bridge to end of the road) Overall this is a lovely run, but likely is solely desirable for those seeking a new experience or already camping nearby or visiting the area. The drive up is gorgeous in the spring and it is very private, but the river has changed since Grant Amaral’s publications.
The run is primarily read-and run class I-II, with a few cluttered rapids pushing class III. It’s saving grace is a steep gradient that keeps your boat moving. The traditional put in is where the road crosses Wild Horse River, but overwhelming presence of river reeds and unscoutable lanes pushed us one mile downstream from the bridge to put in.
There are natural and man-made strainers to contend with, but the majority of the run is roadside and easy to identify the hazards. At the writing of this beta, there was a rope run across the river about 2 miles below the put in. As the river bends left, a cattle guard crosses a small tributary and that is your indication to scout for the rope.
As the run becomes more farmland, the drops start to escalate in intensity and at medium-higher water become class III. Watch out for logs and strainers.
We had no trouble with locals, but there are MANY signs stating “no trespassing” and other posted warnings. The take out is shortly before the end of the road (a gated bridge leading to private property).
How to get there: Take US-95 north to Council. From there, follow GPS or directions to Lafferty Campground. Shortly afterwards there will be a left turn for Wild Horse road and when the road crosses the river, you’re at the traditional put in.
The run took 1.5 hours at low water. It is approximately two hours from Payette/Ontario.