Skagit River Water Levels and CFS Graphs

One of the great things about the Skagit River is that it’s dam controlled. And since its dam supplies much of Seattle’s power, there’s always plenty of water. The water levels can vary greatly from day-to-day depending on power demands, but even the minimum flows still provide more than enough water for a great time rafting the Skagit.

Consult the graphic chart at the bottom of this page to see the level of the Skagit River for the last week. The blue line shows the current water level while the triangle shows the average level for this time of year. Use the following water level descriptions to find out these levels mean to your rafting trip.

Note: This information applies to the Upper Skagit whitewater trip only. While higher levels mean a more thrilling ride on the whitewater trip on the upper portion of the Skagit, the float trips on the lower section remain constant - the lower stretch is slow moving and calm regardless of water level.

CFS = Cubic Feet Per Second

800-1500 CFS – Low Water

Lots of ripples at this level. Negotiating rocks will add some extra challenges to the day.

1500-2500 CFS – Medium-Low Water

You’ll get some extra rapids at this level that disappear at higher flows. This is a great level for some fun whitewater.

2500-4000 CFS – Medium Water

The current gets a little stronger and the rapids a little bigger. You’ll most often see the Skagit running within this range.

4000-5500 CFS – Medium-High Water

At this level the current gets swifter. The rapids get faster and wider, but balance that out with being flatter – still a great trip for beginners and kids.

5500-7000 CFS – High Water

When the water flow starts climbing over 5500 CFS, the S-Curves, a series of class 3 rapids, get more powerful, really adding a dose of excitement!

7000+ CFS – Wow!

Now that’s some fast-moving water! Hang on in the S-Curves - it’s going to be a wild ride!

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