Mill Creek

Mill creek is a tributary to the Kings river. It runs from Squaw Valley down to Wonder Valley.

Paul Martzen has a nice write-up on AW.

http://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/River_detail_id_249

The goods on this creek are memorable but lack challenge that would inspire boaters to drive long distances to run it. Also only about half the run has rapids, the other half is all about tucking through forests of willows and getting pinned on small rocks in 8 inches of water. Perhaps if you are from the east you will really enjoy it(they like rocks right?).

Scouting the first gorge

The goods all come in pretty quick succession. The run is only three miles of whitewater(three mile paddle out) so it is stacked up in there with a some mank in between. Clancy dropping in.

That drops leads directly into this drop:

And yes that is the bottom of his boat. It is best to link the two rapids so you have enough speed not to let this happen.

This section is definitely classic. It is stacked and granite.

It even has a beautiful waterfall that is tempting, has been run, but will be portaged by all but those in there at high water or with a supreme confidence.

There are a few more rapids after lunch that are well worth remembering: Galen looking good

Here is the final rapid before the mank and cow-chasing. 

Unfortunately, the second half of the run consists of tucking your paddle, ducking, and jousting your way through willows. Well worth doing in the area, well worth not doing if you are more than a few hours away.

two beers to three skulls. Both out of five. 250 cfs. 

Beers is the enjoyment of the run, skulls is how much suffering you have to endure to run it.