Nelsons Nitch Airport

Overview

Nelsons Nitch Airport (FAA identifier: WN59) is a small general aviation airport located near the unincorporated community of Onalaska, in Lewis County, Washington. This rural airstrip primarily serves private pilots, flight training operations, and local aviation enthusiasts. Unlike major commercial airports, WN59 does not handle scheduled airline flights; it is a facility for light aircraft, recreational flying, and occasional business or agricultural aviation. The airport plays a modest but important role in connecting the sparsely populated area to the broader aviation network, offering a convenient base for those who own or operate small planes in the southern part of the state.

Given its size and location, Nelsons Nitch is not intended for the general public traveling by commercial air. Instead, it caters to pilots who value the flexibility and accessibility of a community airstrip. The absence of a passenger terminal, baggage claim, or typical airport amenities means that visitors should come prepared with their own arrangements for transport and supplies.

Location & Access

Nelsons Nitch Airport is situated approximately 2 miles south of Onalaska, a small town along the Cowlitz River in Lewis County. The nearest city of significant size is Chehalis, about 15 miles to the north, and Centralia, roughly 18 miles north-northwest. The state capital, Olympia, lies about 45 miles north, making this airport a useful gateway for pilots traveling to the rural areas of southwest Washington.

Access to the airport is by road. The nearest major highway is U.S. Route 12, which runs east-west through Onalaska. From Onalaska, travelers can take local roads south to reach the airport. Since WN59 is a private-use or public-use general aviation field (often with limited operating hours), it is advisable to confirm access with the airport operator before arriving. There is no public transportation directly to the airport; visitors arriving by car will need to drive themselves or arrange a ride. Parking is likely available on the field, though spaces may be informal and limited.

For pilots, the airport is situated in relatively flat terrain near the Cowlitz River valley, offering straightforward approaches. The area is surrounded by forested hills and farmlands, providing scenic views during flight.

Facilities

As a small rural airport, Nelsons Nitch offers minimal facilities. There is no confirmed passenger terminal, no food or beverage outlets, no retail shops, and no public restrooms beyond what might be available in a small hangar or office. The airport likely features a single asphalt or gravel runway, tiedown spots for aircraft, and maybe a small hangar or two for aircraft storage. Pilots should expect self-service fuel availability? Not confirmed from the data, but many similar airports provide avgas via cardlock pumps. Visitors should not rely on any passenger amenities; plan to bring your own water, snacks, and other necessities.

The airport's primary amenities are geared toward aircraft operations: a runway, lighting (possibly pilot-controlled), and perhaps a windsock. There is no commercial transportation or rental car counter on site. If you need assistance, the contact phone number listed for the airport may connect you to the operator or a nearby flight school.

About the Region

The area around Onalaska and Lewis County is defined by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The Cowlitz River flows through the region, offering fishing, rafting, and scenic vistas. To the east rise the Cascade Mountains, while the west gives way to the Willapa Hills and the coast. Timber and agriculture have historically been the economic backbone, with vast forests of Douglas fir and western red cedar. Travelers to the area often come for outdoor recreation: hiking in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, hunting, camping, or exploring the many state parks such as Lewis and Clark State Park. The region also has a rich logging history, and small towns like Onalaska retain a rustic, quiet charm.

Onalaska itself is a small community with a few local businesses, a post office, and easy access to the larger towns of Chehalis and Centralia for services such as groceries, lodging, and dining. The airport, while remote, is a useful backcountry entry point for pilots who wish to enjoy the wilderness without driving long distances.

Practical Information

Nelsons Nitch Airport does not have a website, and its operating days are limited; it is not open every day. Peak hours are listed as 3 pm and 3 am, suggesting the airport may be unattended much of the time, with activity concentrated in the afternoon and late night (possibly for shift workers or agricultural flights). It is essential to contact the airport in advance to confirm availability and any access restrictions.

• Phone: +1 360-978-4961
• Website: None available
• Hours: Not open all days; peak activity around 3 pm and 3 am. Call ahead for specific times.

Because the airport is not a full-service facility, pilots should ensure their aircraft are self-sufficient for fuel, tie-downs, and overnight parking arrangements. If you are traveling to the area as a passenger or visitor, the closest commercial airports are Seattle-Tacoma International (about 90 miles north) or Portland International (about 100 miles south). However, for those flying their own plane, Nelsons Nitch provides a quiet and convenient spot to land and explore the scenic countryside of southwest Washington.