Mid-American Canoe & Kayak Race

Prisco Community Center 115 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora, IL

Join us on Saturday, June 1 to experience the excitement of paddling the scenic Fox River! Paddlers of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate in this long-standing tradition that dates back to the 1960's. When you reach the finish line at Prisco Community Center there will be a post-race party and awards ceremony…

Without Limits: Adventure for All

Saganashkee Slough Boat Launch IL, United States

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  

Teen Exploration Day: River Kayaking 101

W Cermak Rd, west of Des Plaines Ave Cook County, IL 6054 IL, United States

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    

Juneteenth Paddling

Little Calumet Boat Launch Jackson St, east of S Ashland Ave, Cook County, IL, United States

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

Morning Solstice Paddle

Busse Lake Boating Center E Higgins Rd/Rte 72, east of I-290/Hwy 53

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

Friends of the Forest Preserves: Paddling at Kickapoo

Halsted St, south of W 144th St Halsted St, south of W 144th St, Riverdale, IL, United States

Enjoy an afternoon out paddling. Registration Required:Email Jessica Becker at jessica.becker@cookcountyil.gov or call 312-415-2970

Firecracker Race – Mississippi River

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 on a 15 mile downriver course from Grafton access to the Alton riverfront (see map…

$15

STARVED ROCK GUIDED KAYAK TOUR

starved rock state park Ottawa, Illinois, United States

COME WITH US & SEE WHAT HIKERS CAN’T SEE! Looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of kayaking with the stunning natural beauty of Starved Rock? Look no further than our guided kayak tour! With expert guides to lead the way, you’ll paddle through pristine waters and marvel at breathtaking rock formations as…

$15 – $69

The DamYak Challenge

1202 Riverside Drive, McHenry, IL 1202 Riverside Drive,, McHenry, IL

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 pro or a beginner, this event promises fun for all skill levels. So grab your…

$35

Full Moon Paddle

Tower Road Boat Launch Tower Rd, west of Forestway Dr, Cook county, IL, United States

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

LEISURELY PADDLE

Lemont Quarries Lemont, IL, United States

This is a leisurely flatwater paddle. The Lemont Heritage Quarries are three interconnected quarries, connected by hidden channels. They are surprisingly scenic for former stone quarries. This trip is intended for people who don’t want to paddle for several hours, and want the option of stopping whenever they please. That said, anyone is welcome to…

Plant and Paddle

Kickapoo Woods Halsted St, south of W 144th St, Riverdale, IL, United States

Re-plant the river and learn about water conservation with Friends of the Chicago River. Register at aanderson@chicagoriver.org.