Check Out Illinois Paddling Council’s Blog

Forest Preserve of Cook County Activities

June 25, 2024

By Mary Susebach The Forest Preserves of Cook County, with nearly 70,000 acres, is one of the oldest and largest forest preserve districts in the United States. It receives an estimated 62 million visits each year, providing an escape into…

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Kankakee River National Water Trail

June 24, 2024

By Mary Susebach The Kankakee River National Water Trail provides 133 miles of paddling on a historic river flowing through several county parks. Formerly known as the Everglades of the North—before the river was dredged and straightened in the early…

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Twilight Canoe

June 2, 2024

Explore the wonders of the lake. Ages 18 and up. Registration Required:Call Crabtree Nature Center at 847-381-6592

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History of the Lagoons Paddle

June 2, 2024

Explore the uniqueness of Skokie Lagoons by way of water. Equipment provided. In partnership with Chicago River Canoe & Kayak. Registration Required:Call North/Northwest Zone at 773-758-8899

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Plant and Paddle

June 2, 2024

Re-plant the river and learn about water conservation with Friends of the Chicago River. Register at [email protected].  

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Full Moon Paddle

June 2, 2024

Join in an exclusive after-hours moonlit paddle through the Skokie Lagoons. Ages 8 and up.  

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Friends of the Forest Preserves: Paddling at Kickapoo

June 2, 2024

Enjoy an afternoon out paddling. Registration Required:Email Jessica Becker at [email protected] or call 312-415-2970

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Morning Solstice Paddle

June 2, 2024

Celebrate the summer solstice by paddling Busse South Pool. Ages 5 & up. Registration Required:Call North/Northwest Zone at 773-758-8899

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Juneteenth Paddling

June 2, 2024

Experience the African American Heritage Water Trail. Near Riverdale. Registration Required:Call South Zone at 312-415-2970  

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Teen Exploration Day: River Kayaking 101

June 2, 2024

Learn how to kayak on moving water. Class includes a 3-mile trip down the Des Plaines River. Instruction, equipment, kayaks and shuttle provided. Ages 13 & up. Registration Required:Call Central/Southwest Zone at 312-533-5751    

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