Top Whitewater Rafting Rivers: Wildlife

BEAT THAT: Rivers like Washington's Skagit offer one of the largest bald eagle concentrations in the lower 48. (Digital Vision/Getty)

While there's no guarantee that you'll spot any critters peeking out across the riverbanks on your river-rafting outing, one thing's for certain: the longer you're out on the river, the better your chances of spending time with all the friends of the forest. River runs in popular rafting locales like North Carolina or Pennsylvania are simply less likely to gift you a viewing, because savvy critters know when the whooping-and-a-hollering paddling hordes are around. Conversely, the wildlife-rich plains and valleys of Alaska are like a veritable Noah's Ark of prowling, photogenic beasties. Hit Washington's Skagit to float past one of the largest concentrations of bald eagles in the lower 48, although keep in mind that prime viewing season is also in the frigid winter months.

Wildlife Whitewater Rafting Rivers