Flat Water Paddling in Chicago, IL

The Chicago River offers one of the most unique urban paddling experiences in the country.

The Des Plaines River travels 95 miles through four counties in northeastern Illinois with dozens of different route options for Chicago-area paddlers.

One of the most popular destinations in the state, Starved Rock State Park is also a great base of operations to paddle the Illinois and Vermillion rivers.

This shallow, clean river in the state park makes for a great paddling trip.

Salt Creek, one of the designated official water trails in northeast Illinois, offers several distinct sections for paddling. The final nine miles are almost completely surrounded by forest preserve.

This small, meandering river can get low in the summer time, but when the water level is high it’s a great way to see DuPage County.

This forest preserve in DuPage County offers a scenic lake with a large boat ramp and rentals, making it an easy place to canoe or kayak

The Fox River features several paddling options and a scenic ride through a beautiful part of the state.

This group of connected lakes, channels and islands is one of the top paddling destinations on the north shore of Chicago.

One of the biggest lakes in the work is Chicago’s front yard—take advantage of its boating opportunities.