Nooksack River

Whitewater Rafting

The "Jewel of the North Cascades"

This river is born at the base of the Nooksack Glacier, high on Mt. Shuksan.  After mixing with many side creeks and tumbling over Nooksack Falls, this river’s glacial silt laden water enters the upper gorge of the Nooksack River.  Sightings of wildlife such as eagles, deer, and otter are a common occurrence in the lower section until we reach our conclusion at the take-out.

Unfortunately, it’s quite common for new seasonal drift wood and log-jams to cause these trips to be put on hold until safe passage is possible.  The best replacement for this trip is whitewater rafting on the Skykomish River. 

Nooksack River
Whitewater Rafting

• Season:  June – July
• Class/Difficulty: Class 3+ / Intermediate 
• Ages: 14+ 
• Duration/Length: 3 hours / 6 miles
• Gear provided? Yes. No extra charge!
• Price Range: Varies based on group size 
• Meeting location: Graham’s Historical Restaurant, 9989 Mt Baker Hwy, Deming, WA 98244  |  See Map
• Meeting times: Variable

Trip Description:

The Nooksack River, just south of the Canadian border, is a good late season whitewater run with a couple miles of whitewater followed by several more miles of calm water.  We begin the 6-mile trip in a primeval canyon dripping with green mosses.  This wild ride requires precise maneuvering through the tight and technical rapids in it’s narrow canyon section.  Rapids the likes of “Fir Drop,” “Turtle Rock,” “Landslide,” and “Gallop Drop” give you the sense of this steep canyon and it’s fast pace.  This Class 2 – 3 glacial-fed river settles down into a leisurely float with views of 10,778 foot Komo Kulshan, “The Great White Watcher,” better known as Mount Baker, Washington’s second most active volcano.  We meet near the town of Maple Falls, WA about 1/2 an hour east of Bellingham, WA.

How to Prepare

We’ll provide all the necessary equipment and gear, but here’s what you should wear and bring with you.

What to bring

Hot weather

Cold weather

What we provide

All Weather, some optional

Other preparations

Tips & Downloads

Please Note:  Rafting and outdoor recreational activities involve risk; participants must read and sign the “Release of Liability” waiver linked to above.  If the water on the scheduled river is too high to be safely run on the day of your trip we reserve the right to: change rivers, re-schedule another day, or cancel the trip (with 100% refund).

Refund Policy:  A 100% refund can be processed if you cancel at least 30 days in advance.  A 50% refund can be processed if you cancel 10-29 days in advance.  No refund will be processed if you cancel less than 10 days prior to your trip or don’t show up on the day of your trip.  If fewer people show up for the trip than spaces were reserved, you will be held accountable for all reserved spots.  We raft rain or shine.

Where to Meet

Meeting Address

Graham’s Historical Restaurant
9989 Mt Baker Highway
Deming, WA 98244

Meeting Location Map

Want driving directions from your specific location? Just click on the Alpine Adventures circular icon on the map, then click on the right turn arrow icon in the red bar in the popup window.