Nisqually

A nice run for four packrafters. 1820 cfs at NISQUALLY RIVER AT MCKENNA, WA , medium flow. Put in at McKenna was easy- and park was basically empty early in the morning as well as parking at the take out (yelm powerhouse park). boulder gardens were fun, with lots of eddy out opportunities and even some surfing options. The first railroad bridge does have a tree blocking the river on the right, but center and left are easy, open options that pose no difficulties. There were no river spanning/blocking wood, but established islands do have a fair amount of wood debris some of which looks new, likely from the december- 25 storm.

The river features & rapids are well established and described here on the Am. Whitewater site, with no new info- or edits from this trip.

Big kahuna can be scouted on the right bank, which you reach after you pass the distinctive 'wood island'. We did not see any metal debris or cars at the little Kahuna, and we stuck to the center based on prior descriptions. It is possible that any metal debris was covered (hidden).

Lots of wildlife- ducks, eagles, porcupine, and a fun day at this flow level.