Sauk River                       

1 day, April through July (sometimes into August on high snow pack years.)

Whitechuck to Darrington

8 miles, difficulty Class III & IV-

Cost $85.

 

Most of the day trips we conduct occur on this jewel of a river. Part of the Federal Wild and Scenic Rivers System, The Sauk charges down through the Mr. Baker National Forest near Darrington. Beginning at the confluence of the glacially fed Whitechuck River and the snow fed Sauk, we immediately plunge into an ongoing frenzied dance of whitewater. Leaping and crashing with energy, the upper 5 miles of the Sauk are demanding. We'll run head on into a series of galloping rapids culminating in the rapid known as" Jaws”. The Sauk, like its sister river the Suiattle, is young, steep, and capable of altering its channel during periods of flood.

 

After lunch the Sauk takes on a more moderate tempo with time to enjoy its heavily forested banks, trees dripping with moss and lush maiden hair ferns. A variety of waterfowl are readily seen in this area and the crystalline waters of Clear Creek are a delight as they enter in stark contrast to the milky green Sauk. An exceptional experience and one of our favorite whitewater trips. Only 1.5 hours drive time from Seattle. Swimming ability is required. Previous experience is recommended, but not required for healthy active people.

 

Our trips on the Sauk and Suiattle Rivers are conducted under special use permit granted by the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.