If you're going to be stopping in Seattle on your way to or from Alaska, you'll want to be able get out of downtown and see the beautiful rivers and mountains surrounding the gorgeous Pacific Northwest Region.  We offer two river adventures that are sure to get you out of the city and into the beautiful Skagit Valley 60 miles North of Seattle.

The mighty Skagit River is the third largest river in the United States. The Skagit boasts 5 species of salmon and a variety of other fish such as dolly varden, cutthroat trout & rainbow trout, making the area a paradise for birding, fishing and recreation.  Each year the Valley is home to the Tulip Festival coinciding with the migration of the snow geese. Winter brings an abundance of eagles from Alaska and British Columbia. With some of the most beautiful scenery in Washington with looming Mt. Baker, this is an area rich in nature and historic interest that you you won't want to miss.

Lower Skagit River Estuary Raft Adventure

We'll meet you in LaConner (only a 60 mile drive north of Seattle or south from Vancouver B.C.) and transport you to Blakes Resort on the Lower Skagit River.  You'll meet with your naturalist, river guides who will treat you with tales of local history, spot a variety of birds, and take you on a voyage of discover  through the Skagit estuary into the Swinomish Channel and the historic town of LaConner, Washington. Pacific Northwest Float Trips is the only raft company offering this innovative trip; it has been enjoyed by folks of all ages for many years.  Since it is a leisurely float with no white water, it is ideal for families, groups and bird enthusiasts.

This is our most productive River Adventure to experience a variety of wildlife, Red-Tailed Hawks, Blue Heron, Bald Eagles and a variety of sea-birds. On occasion we witness river otters and other marine critters.

You’ll stop for a yummy picnic on Goat Island located across from Deception Pass where you can explore and climb to an abandoned Fort, a leftover post from WWII.  A huge cistern is at the top of the island where a vast variety of birds visit on their migratory route to both bathe and drink the fresh water. We'll meander on through the channel and you'll disembark from your inflatable raft in LaConner. 

Skagit River Scenic Raft Adventure

The Skagit River Scenic Raft Trip is offered between April and October where the largest concentration of wintering Bald Eagles found anywhere within the lower 48 states visit the Skagit River.

The Bald Eagles migrate south from Canada and Alaska to find good food and clean water. The Skagit River, bordered by maple and cottonwood trees large enough to support the huge birds, provides the environment to suit their tastes. Although not as many eagles populate the area there are many resident eagles, as well as blue heron, red-tailed hawks and a variety of ducks.

Now you can enjoy the thrill of seeing these magnificent birds while you float quietly down the Skagit River.  As your naturalist, guide takes you on your journey down the river, marvel at the gorgeous scenery and the splendor of Mt. Baker in the background.  We’ve have offered this trip since 1974 and it remains a popular yearly event! This is a perfect occasion to observe and photograph birds in their natural surroundings.

Our personable guides are very knowledgeable about this area and the river.  Many of them have been guiding this trip for 10 years or more and they fully enjoy sharing this wonder with visitors. Very adept at spotting plant and wildlife your guide will relate the rich history and ecology of the Skagit. This 8 mile float covers the Wild and Scenic Section of the Skagit River. 

The trip takes about 3 hours and is suitable for all ages as there is no white water.  Bring your cameras for the many photo opportunities. Meet in Rockport, Washington.   Prior to embarking on your safe inflatable raft our guides will brief you with our safety talk about this trip.

     We provide shuttle service, life jackets and extra rain ponchos when necessary.  Please wear layers of clothing as the weather can be unpredictable - either cool or quite warm.  You can always remove a layer.

WHAT TO DO IN SEATTLE

There is so much to see in downtown Seattle, here are a few suggestions (with links) for entertainment, shopping and education: