The Forest Preserves of Cook County provides a unique opportunity for outdoor lovers to engage with nature in a profound way—through paddling. Chicago and its sprawling suburbs might not immediately conjure images of boating through tranquil waters. However, the rivers that wind through the Forest Preserves are natural corridors, offering opportunities to explore a different side of the county—where the urban meets the untamed.
From marshy wetlands to the meandering bends of regional rivers, each waterway offers a unique kayaking or canoeing experience. Here are three options, ranging from beginner to advanced, and what you will find along the way.
Beginner Trip at the Skokie Lagoons
The Skokie Lagoons offers a beginner paddling experience with a unique, rich historical back story, from Native American camps and farming in what was a huge marsh to the creation of the lagoons by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Today, as you canoe or kayak, you may spot the ducks, herons, coyote, mink and other wildlife that relies on the lagoons for food and shelter. The waters are home to a diverse range of fish, including bluegill, sunfish, and largemouth bass. If you’re looking to boat instead, you’ll also find rental options from April to October.
Recommended route: Enter Skokie Lagoons at the accessible Tower Road Boat Launch and enjoy a 1.3-mile paddle on a loop around the lagoons.
Intermediate Trip on the Little Calumet River
The Little Calumet River is a great option for paddlers with a bit more experience, in part because you’ll encounter other boats on the water. While traveling, you pass riverbanks lined with diverse species of trees, shrubs and wetland plants. You might spot wildlife such as ducks, turtles, frogs and small mammals along the banks or in the water.
Recommended route: If you enter the Little Calumet River at the Kickapoo Woods’ Canoe Landing, it’s about a 2.7-mile paddle to reach to the Little Calumet Boat Launch.
Advanced Trip on the Des Plaines River
Generally considered a more challenging river due to its faster flow, variable water levels and occasional obstacles like downed trees, the Des Plaines River offers stretches of wetlands and meadows. You’ll go past Indian Boundary Golf Course, the trails of Trailside Museum, and many neighborhoods. But the biggest draw might be the view and shade along the riverbanks lined with dense forests of oak, maple and other native trees.
With so many different habitats on a trip on the Des Plaines, you could see deer, foxes, and many, many bird species—even bald eagles.
Recommended route: Enter Des Plaines River through Irving Park Road Canoe Landing and travel approximately 12 miles south to Plank Road Meadow Boat Launch.
Ready to experience the Forest Preserves like never before? Take a paddling trip today! Visit our Boating, Canoeing & Kayaking Page for more details or join one of our guided Paddling Events.