North Cascades River Expeditions

North Fork Skymomish

We begin with a one-mile long rapid culminating in El Nino, a Class IV rapid that threatens a long swim. After El Nino, the river dashes through miles of steep, boulder-choked whitewater. Once safely past Minefield, the action slows just a little. Still, expect plenty of adrenaline-pumping thrills all the way to Index, 600 feet below. The North Fork remains our greatest adventure, delicately straddling a fine line between outrageous excitement and sheer madness.

Because of the steep gradient, ice-cold water, and unavoidable hazards, the North Fork cannot be run without some real risks. Participants should be comfortable with the possibility of a long, cold swim. Make sure you dress properly, listen to your guide, paddle hard, and pay attention to rafting fundamentals.

Meeting Place: We will meet at the same place we meet for our Skykomish trip, a public fishing area known as Big Eddy. To reach Big Eddy, take US 2 to Gold Bar. 1.5 miles east of Gold Bar, US 2 crosses the Skykomish. Big Eddy is across the bridge and to the right. If we determine that the water level will not permit a North Fork run, we will offer you the option of running the main Skykomish, rescheduling, or getting a full refund.

Meeting Time: Our usual meeting time is 9 a.m. Please confirm this time when you make reservations.

Camping: Wallace Falls State Park, Gold Bar, 360-793-0420. National Forest camping in this area is limited and the campgrounds that do exist are often closed. For current information, contact the Skykomish Ranger Station at 360-677-2414.

Lodging:

Cascadia Inn, Skykomish, 360-677-2030

Whispering Waters, Baring, 360-793-7616
Brookside Motel, Monroe, 360-794-8832
Fairground Inn, Monroe, 360-794-5401

Season and Water Source: Rain and melting snow are needed to bring the North Fork up to a runnable level. A minimum flow of 6000 cfs on the Skykomish (Gold Bar gauge) can occur any time, but April and May offer the best chance. Because the Skykomish rises and falls quickly, we cannot ever be certain the water will be there until the morning of the trip.

Minimum Age of Participants: 18

How to Dress for Comfort and Safety: Wetsuits are required on this trip. A farmer john wetsuit and wetsuit booties are best. However, farmer john wetsuits have no arm and shoulder insulation. You need to bring additional clothing.

Over your wetsuit, plan to wear wool, polypropylene, or, better, nylon pile (but never, never cotton). Add layers for colder conditions.

Your final layer should be a paddling jacket. This can be a nylon windbreaker, a rain jacket, or a mountain parka. The purpose of the paddling jacket is to keep your insulation dry.

Wetsuit booties can be supplemented by wool, polypropylene, or neoprene (wetsuit material) socks for more warmth. Keep in mind that your feet may be in cold water for the entire trip. We also recommend that you wear neoprene gloves and bring a stocking cap without a ball to wear under your helmet.

North Cascades River Expeditions
PO Box 116
Arlington, Wa 98223
360-435-9548 fax 360-435-0796
Toll Free: 1-800-634-8433
email: rafting@cftinet.com