The Skagit River has the best whitewater in July and August. All of Washington State rivers rely on snowmelt to have whitewater. The Skagit is fed from Ross and Diablo lakes. The 2nd longest river in Washington State set in a beautiful mountain valley at the entrance to the North Cascades National Park. Ambling emerald currents sprinkled with rapids converge with lush ancient growth forests. This is a great introduction to whitewater rafting for families and thrill-seekers alike.
The best place to use the bathroom before or after your trip is in the town of Newhalem. There are brand new facilities across from the General store.
Trip description
The Upper Skagit River is located in the Ross Lake National Recreation area of the North Cascades National Park. Another beautiful and moderate whitewater trip for the family, this river is a great destination in the summer. There are plenty of things to see and do outdoors in the surrounding areas including winery tours, blueberry picking farms, hiking, canoeing, and many beautiful waterfalls. Be sure to stop in at the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center just past our boat launch at Goodell Creek for additional information on area activities. This whitewater rafting trip offers astounding views of granite mountain peaks in the North Cascades National Park.
The upper section of the Skagit River is rated as Class 2 – 3 and is a great introduction to whitewater for kids and adults. A moderate amount of whitewater is enhanced by the overwhelming presence of nature on this 10 mile rafting journey. The mountain scenery and abundant waterfowl make this a perfect nature-lover’s outing and one that is a great trip for the whole family. There are plenty of opportunities to go swimming and even a big rock to jump from if the water levels are right.
Where to stay
These are the spots nearby where we’d recommend a good night’s sleep before or after your river adventure.
- Skagit River RV & Camping, 360-218-7744. Showers, laundry, WiFi. Only 15 minutes to meeting location
- Goodell Creek Campground, 360-873-4500. At meeting location
- Newhalem Campground, 360-854-7200. 5 minutes to meeting location
- Rockport State Park, 360-853-8461. 30 minutes to meeting location
For more campground information, contact the following Ranger Offices:
Mt. Baker Ranger Station – 360-856-5700Darrington Ranger District – 360-436-1155Skagit Ranger District – 360-873-4500
Glacier Peak Resort & Winery, 360-873-2250. Glacier Peak Resort and Winery offers seven Theme Cabins, 5 new Chalets, and 19 charming older Country Cabins that range in size from one to three bedrooms, all with indoor bath facilities. All have kitchens with cookware, utensils, dishes, dish soap and towels supplied and equipped with a coffee-bar. The new Brookhaven Lodge B&B facility has furnished rooms with shared bath. Breakfast at The Eatery. There is an RV park with room for 5th wheels and pul through spots. Tent camping on the open lawn or in the forest. WIFI, Game Room, bath house, laundry, Cafe, and Bar. Huge beach on the Skagit River. Tell them you are rafting with Alpine!
