I floated down river from McKenna. Once! There are some nasty rock gardens in that drift and especially when the water is low. That was when one could drive to the tank crossing bridge and cross it then drive up river to what was called combat city and launch there. Been more years than I want to admit.

My understanding is that one can still launch in that area but need a Joint Base Lewis McChord pass and also coordination with the range officer. Yup, believe the road runs through the firing range. Turnaround to recover the vehicle is also something to factor into whether it is all worth the effort.

At that time used to be able to pull a driftboat out at the handicap hole. Haven't checked that out recently. No military issues there so I guess that if one can physically launch at the handicap hole and go from there out to salt water one could avoid any need for a Base pass. Just don't pull over on the military reservation.