Skagit River, Washington
| Price |
 What's this? |
| Class of Rapids |
Upper: II-III; Lower: I |
| Trip Miles |
Upper: 9 miles |
| Trip Duration |
1 day |
| Season |
Upper: July-September; Lower: December-February |
| Raft Type |
Paddle Raft, Oar Raft, Inflatable Kayak |
| River Sections |
Newhalem to Copper Creek (upper); Marblemount to Steelhead County Park (lower) |
| Nearby Towns |
Marblemount (WA), Rockport (WA) |
| Driving Times |
Seattle (WA): 2 to 2.5 hours |
| Recommended For |
Beginner, Families, Wildlife, Spring |
The Skagit and its Cascade, Sauk, and Suiattle tributaries feed into Puget Sound in northern Washington. The area features one of the largest bald eagle concentrations in the lower 48 states and is known for its outstanding fishery. The lower Skagit offers an easy float for families, with a good chance of spotting those majestic bald eagles. Note, however, that prime time for this section is in the chilly winter months, when up to 300 eagles congregate in the Skagit River Bald Eagle Natural Area. Hit the upper Skagit for something a little rowdier, though nothing particularly fearsome. The river is popular over the summer months, controlled by releases from Seattle's Light's Ross, Diablo, and Gorge dams, though it is a cold river. Wet suits are almost always required. There's one half-mile section that's gets a little bumpy, including the Class III Jack-the-Ripper and Wavy Gravy rapids; otherwise it's a mostly mellow Class II-III float with great North Cascades views and scenery.
* Trip price reflects the average cost per day for a guided rafting adventure on a given river (
= $50-$100/day;
= $100-$250/day;
= $250 or more/day) and accounts for half-day, full-day, or multiday rafting excursions. Lodging, dining, and transportation costs (airfare, car rental/shuttle, equipment rentals, etc.) have not been factored into account. Please note that the trip price classification is intended to be an approximate guideline, as the range of prices on a given river can vary based on amenities, services, and customized add-ons offered through individual outfitters.
