Winston Creek to Alder Lake

ACCESS: Run ends with a paddle out on Alder Lake. Lat/Long are approximate. LOGISTICS: The take-out is at Alder Park which is on the Nisqually River's Alder Reservoir. The turn for the park is at Highway 7 mile 22.6 and from here it's a 0.1 mile drive to the boat launch. To reach the put-in head back out to Highway 7 and head east along the reservoir and then turn south to cross the Nisqually River. Continuing on to Highway 7 mile 14.7 you will see the turn for Pleasant Valley Road which in 3.5 miles becomes FR 74. At mile 8.2 the pavement ends and the road has huge pot holes. Take the right fork at mile 9.4 to stay on FR 74. You will pass a campsite at mile 12.0 which is the first point where you will be close to the river. You will cross three bridges at mile 12.3, 12.4, and 12.9. Campsites and easy river access are available near all of these bridges offering potential put-in options. Shortly after crossing the third bridge the river heads up hill and slightly away from the river. You will cross Winston Creek at mile 15.2. You can scramble down into the river canyon before you reach this point wherever it looks best (check the satellite photo which illustrates the spot where the road is close to the river). DESCRIPTION: for additional information see: Little Nisqually trip report 15 NOV 2001 on on Cascade Classics. Little Nisqually trip report 24 MAR 2002 on Cascade Classics.