The Skagit River, in Northwest Washington, is the largest and most biologically important river draining to Puget Sound. The Skagit Wild and Scenic River System includes a portion of the Skagit River from Bacon Creek downstream to just east of the town of Sedro Woolley, which is classified as recreational. Three tributaries; the Sauk, Suiattle and Cascade Rivers are classified as scenic. The system is 158.5 miles and includes over 38,000 acres. Approximately 50% of the river system is in private ownership, primarily in the Skagit and lower Sauk.

Whitewater rafting is popular on the Sauk and Suiattle Rivers. Commercial guides require permits from the U.S. Forest Service. Private boaters do not require permits. Winter eagle viewing on the upper Skagit draws thousands of visitors from November to February. Fishing for steelhead, coho and Chinook is popular on the Skagit and lower Sauk rivers. The outstandingly remarkable values are fish, wildlife and scenic quality. The upper Suiattle, upper Cascade and upper Sauk are on the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.