Skykomish River

With both the North and South Forks of Skykomish Rivers running through the Upper Sky Valley, it's a paddling and angler's Mecca. You can enjoy a lazy day of floating, wade into hundreds of fishing holes, or if it's a wilder ride you seek, take to the world class whitewater rapids that the Sky Valley is famous for.

Brief History...we said brief

In 2008 the Wild Sky Wilderness area was created within the Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The area, which includes the North Fork of the Skykomish River has over 106,577-acres of wilderness and feeds both rivers via snowmelt and an abundance of precipitation; typically between 150-200 inches annually. Home to towering evergreens - Douglas fir, western red cedar, western hemlock among others - glaciers, countless trials, Mountain Lookout cabins and of course, the Lifeways of the North and South Forks of the Sky, the area is truly a gem of the Pacific Northwest.

The Action

Paddling season typically begins again in autumn, with the Rain (yes, capital 'R') returning to the region. Late October rains swell the rivers once again and despite the winter temps and snow, paddling continues through early summer (typically early July). When the river is running at 6,000 cfm, the famous 'Boulder Drop,' becomes a Class V rapid, but fear not there are plenty of guide and outfitter services to help run these rapids.

For the angler, there is four-season fishing on the Sky, where Steelhead and Salmon abound in the Lifeway. And with over 15 put-ins you're bound to find a good fishing hole.

Also, for those seeking a mellow float with the kids, consider a put-in at Big Eddy State Park and float down to the mouth of the Sultan River.

With close proximity to Seattle, it makes a great day trip, however with so much to see there's plenty of reasons to stay a few days and explore all the area has to offer.