Check Out Illinois Paddling Council’s Blog

Friends of the Forest Preserves: Paddling at Kickapoo

June 2, 2024

Enjoy an afternoon out paddling. Registration Required:Email Jessica Becker at jessica.becker@cookcountyil.gov 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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Without Limits: Adventure for All

June 2, 2024

Enjoy climbing and kayaking in this program specially designed for individuals with a primary physical disability or visual impairment. Registration Required:Call Central/Southwest Zone at 312-533-5751  

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The DamYak Challenge

April 26, 2024

Join us for an exciting and adventurous day at the DamYak Challenge! Get ready to paddle, race, and have a blast with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. This in-person event will take place at 1202 Riverside Drive, McHenry, IL, USA. Whether you’re a seasoned…

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Firecracker Race – Mississippi River

April 26, 2024

We are moving the Firecracker Race date back to where it all started, close to Independence Day. The Firecracker Race will again be held on the Mississippi River on Saturday July 6, 2024. Just as last year, paddlers will race…

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No trespassing private property sign

How Illinois Water Access Law Measures Up to Other States

April 9, 2024

In discussing HB 4708, the IPC is frequently asked how we measure up to other states. The short answer for paddlers: poorly. Which is why IPC supports the passage of HB 4708 and are asking YOU to help us pass…

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Expanding Paddlers’ Access to Illinois Rivers

April 3, 2024

Contact your House Member TODAY! All You Need to Know for Supporting HB 4708 By the Illinois Department of Natural Resources estimate, Illinois has 26,000 miles of waterways. Unfortunately, IDNR classifies only a select few of our state’s waterways as…

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Expanding Paddler’s Access to Illinois Rivers: An online conversation supporting House Bill 4807 

March 17, 2024

Did you know Illinois has 26,000 miles of paddleable waterways, relatively few of which are considered “public waters”? Join Scott Hays, President and Advocacy Chair of the Illinois Paddling Council for an online conversation to build support among the paddling…

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