Skykomish River Rafting, Washington
Skykomish was the first river in Washington to be designated the “scenic river corridor” status. An easy access from Seattle, with roaring whitewaters flowing over colossal granite boulders amidst peaks towering over 6000 feet coupled with breathtaking scenery, Skykomish keeps up to its promise for sure.
The headwaters run through the western glacial valleys of the snowcapped Cascade Mountains. The South and North Forks of Skykomish create a whitewater paradise, with Class III-V rapids strewn around its steep gradient of about 120 feet per mile. Near the confluence of the two, thrilling rapids challenge rafters for over three continuous miles. The most notorious of them is the Boulder Drop. Even veterans think twice before venturing into this Class V enigma. Several other rapids like the Marbleshoot, Lunch Hole, Aquagasm, Déjà vu and Proctor follow in quick succession. The trail isn’t easy and previous Class V experience is recommended. The minimum age to tread into Skykomish’s roller coasting waters is 18 years.
Alpine forests of fir, hemlock, cedar, alder and maple surround the rafting trails and the mighty peaks of Mt. Index and Mt. Persis oversee in a misty wonder. In Skykomish, it seems that scenery and adventure vie for supremacy. Deer, elk and beavers, can be seen along the banks and Skykomish also offers great avenues for fishing.
