Hazard Warning: Hazard information may be user-submitted and unverified. Conditions change frequently. Always scout rapids and obstacles yourself.
Rapid ME Class IV

Staircase

Penobscot, W. Branch - Ripogenus Gorge to Debsconeag · ME

American Whitewater 45.8766, -69.1534

Save this feature with the run it belongs to.

Gauge Conditions

E. Br. Penobscot River below Grand Lake Matagamon Downstream Primary
Runnable: ? – ? CFS

Approximate - nearest available gauge. Use as general reference only.

Data from American Whitewater & USGS

Photo

Staircase
Photo courtesy of American Whitewater

Description

Just below Exterminator you enter the Staircase. Big violent water with a scatering of trashy holes. Go right of center and try to avoid the "Fist of God" a large pourover. Eddy out at the bottom on river right to catch some good surf in the tailrace.

Location

Interactive river map Loads as you approach this section.
Type
Rapid
Difficulty
Class IV
Mile Marker
0.2 mi
Directions
Navigate
View Full Run
Ripogenus Gorge to Debsconeag
Penobscot, W. Branch
III-V 13.0 mi

Current Conditions

5-Day Forecast

Whitewater data from
American Whitewater