skagit

Skagit River Eagle Expeditions

An eagle expedition is a river rafting voyage through one of the world's great eagle habitats. Our version is a peaceful paddle through the Skagit River Bald Eagle Natural Area. The eagles return to this area each winter to feed on the salmon that use the Skagit as a spawning route. From your raft you can admire and photograph these magnificent predators in their natural setting.

Season and Water Source: Eagles begin arriving in numbers in November. Peak populations are present in December and January. Many eagles remain throughout February. We usually end our season the first week of March.

Meeting Place: We will meet at Steelhead County Park in Rockport, Washington. There are two routes to Rockport from Seattle. Via Arlington/Darrington the distance is 93 miles. Via Burlington the distance is 102 miles. Both routes take 2 hours to drive. Steelhead Park is on the north side of the Skagit River, just west of the Highway 530 bridge over the Skagit.

Meeting Time: Our usual meeting time is 10:30 a.m.

How to Dress: Winter trips are quite pleasant if you dress properly. Since the Skagit is not a whitewater run, you will not get wet from water splashing into the raft. However, we recommend that you bring a rain jacket and rain pants if there is a threat of showers.

Even on clear days, it is a good idea to bundle up. We suggest fleece (nylon pile) pants, wool pants, or ski pants, warm winter jacket, gloves, and a hat. Avoid wearing cotton, especially on rainy days. Don't be afraid to over-prepare. It is better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.

Wool socks and boots are perfect footwear. Felt-lined boots with rubber soles, such as Sorels, are perfect. Second best are rubber boots. Hiking boots and work boots will also work but not as well.

Age and Condition of Participants: Children must be 6 or over. There is no upper age limit. Many senior citizens enjoy rafting the Skagit.

Camping: Good camping is available at Steelhead County Park and also at nearby Rockport State Park. Both areas have RV hookups.

Motels in Marblemount: Clark's Skagit River Cabins, 360-873-2250
Buffalo Run Inn, 360-873-2103
Grace Haven, 360-873-4106
Upriver Lodging, 360-873-2461

Motels in Darrington: Darrington Motor Inn, 360-436-1776

"I just finished talking with a couple folks from our float trip a week ago and they are still jazzed, as I am, about seeing all those eagles and the beautiful weather. Thanks again for a wonderful trip." -Faith