Location: Northern Washington (about 90 miles northeast of Seattle).

Length of trips: Upper Skagit nine miles in three hours; Lower Skagit ten miles in three hours.

Season: Year-round. The water flow usually peaks in May or June, although dams minimize the seasonal fluctuations. Many boaters take advantage of the calmer water in winter to watch bald eagles.

Weather: The weather is true to the Pacific Northwest: cool temperatures in winter (20° to 50°F), warm temperatures in summer (60° to 90°), with rain and drizzle in winter and spring.

Lodging: No riverside camping, but public campgrounds at Goodell Creek, Newhalen Creek, and Steelhead Park. Also a variety of accommodations in Concrete, Marblemount, and Sedro Woolley.

Boats: Kayaks, oar boats, paddle rafts.

Rapids: Class II and III on the upper reaches; Class I and II on the lower end. Dams and meltwater from the Cascades’ snowpack keep the clear water dangerously cold (40s).

Special features:

• Stunning views of forested valleys and lofty snowcapped peaks.
• Famous for bald eagles, especially in winter. Also waterfowl and great blue herons.
• Excellent fishing for steelhead (fall and winter) and trout (June through February).
• Good hiking.
• Wildflowers in spring and summer.
• Autumn color.
• The Upper Skagit is suitable for intermediate and adventurous first-time rafters.
• The Lower Skagit is suitable for first-time rafters, families, seniors in good physical condition, and the physically challenged who are comfortable in and around the water.

Nearby excursions:

• North Cascades National Park.
• Tours of hydroelectric dams in Diablo.
• Cascade Highway Loop.

For a list of outfitters and more information (Upper Skagit):

• North Cascades National Park, 2105 Highway 20, Sedro Woolley, Washington 98284; +1 360 856 5700, fax +1 360 856 1934. Try to book at least two or three weeks in advance.

For a list of outfitters and more information (Lower Skagit):

• USDA Forest Service, Mount Baker Ranger District, Mount Baker-Snosqalmie National Forest, 2105 Highway 20, Sedro Woolley, Washington, 98284; +1 360 856 5700, fax +1 360 856 1934. Try to book at least two or three weeks in advance.