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 West of Forestway Dr., Cook County, 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.  

History of the Lagoons Paddle

Tower Road Boat Launch West of Forestway Dr., Cook County, United States

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

Floatzilla 2024

Lake Potter in Sunset Park Rock Island, IL Rock Island, IL, United States

Floatzilla is a community of people who love the water and all the adventure it brings. So join us and be a part of the Floatzilla family! Welcome to Floatzilla, the largest paddle event on the Mississippi! Held annually in the beautiful Quad Cities region, Floatzilla brings together paddling enthusiasts from all over the country…

$40

KISHWAUKEE RIVER SOUTH BRANCH (BASELINE TO KINGSTON)

Baseline Road to Kingston Genoa, IL, United States

Day trip Details:   A lovely section of the Kishwaukee River South Branch through farms & forest. It is a 9 mile paddle. We will stop for lunch at Citizens Park in Genoa. Bring a drink, lunch, PFD, and dress appropriately for the water & weather. Car shift 9:30. Contact trip leader for more details.

Twilight Canoe

Crabtree Nature Center 3 Stover Rd, Barrington, IL, United States

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