Anyone launched at Farewell Bend on Brownlee Reservoir?

johnf

Hi Gang,

I'm thinking about making a run to spend a weekend on Brownlee Reservior...perhaps October 13/14 (Sat/Sun).

Has anyone launched at Farewell Bend on Brownlee Reservoir?
Any guess on the water level in which to launch this time of year?

Would love to hear of any experiences there.

Thanks,

John

B~C · Posted: Thu Oct 04, 2007 8:22 am Post subject:

here's a link to ID power that will let you know which ramps are usable
http://www.idahopower.com/riversrec/waterlevels/
We've never launched at Farewell Band, we head to Richland just because we like the drive. Brownlee is nice, especially if you're into fishing, for better cruising and sight seeing it's worth the extra drive to Owhyee....or better yet, push on just a little bit further and hit Lake Powell Smile

lot of driving for what you get, next time I get that eastern OR urge, I may go explore Lake Sacajawea on the Snake instead

enjoy

El and Bill · Posted: Thu Oct 04, 2007 8:30 am Post subject:

Haven't been on Brownlee, but have had our eye on it for years. We've camped at Farewell Bend many times and the lake looks GREAT for a scenic desert cruise. Many miles (like 60) long and local folks told us great fishing. Easy access to Farewell Bend with boat and trailer off the interstate.

Brownlee is full at 2,077 feet, and in the fall is often lowered to maintain the Fall Chinook below Hell's Canyon. The estimate for 10/5 is 2,048. Four feet from the end of the ramp at Brownlee the elevation is 2,051, so its nip and tuck. Current in the river at the ramp at low water often prevents its use. Call Idaho Power at 800 551-6949 for the latest info. You can use Old Gravel Boat Ramp at Woodhead Park, off highway 71, at lower levels but we have never been there and don't know about ease of access.

Hope you can make it to the reservoir -- all we have heard about it is good, but, needless to say, watch the weather.

El and Bill · Posted: Thu Oct 04, 2007 8:57 am Post subject:

Ken --

Lake Sacajawea, and all the reservoirs on the navigable Snake, are marvelous and we sure encourage you and any others in range, to head down the Snake -- an incredible experience. See some photos and our reaction to the Snake at:

http://www.geocities.com/bill_fiero/colsnake.htm

johnf · Posted: Fri Oct 05, 2007 12:21 am Post subject:

Thanks Ken...Thanks El & Bill...

Got to talking with a friend who has visited the area and we may now go to Hells Canyon Reservoir...might be a better launch ramp and the scenery from the web looks good.

Hope you all are doing well.

John