Skagit River Overview

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.