Best Places for Kayaking in the Chicago Area
Table of Contents
1. Fox River
We’ve got the prettiest side of the Fox...a mild, pretty river with sand bluffs coming all the way down.
by Bill Tickett, Ayers Landing guide
Fox River - Good to Know
Beginner
Late spring through early autumn
Class I: Easy
Gentle current, rock outcroppings, cliffs & foliage
No glass, no fireworks, pets welcome
Depending on traffic, take I-90 S or I-55 W, eventually getting on I-80 the rest of the way.
2. Lake Michigan
Paddling on the lake is a very serene experience, separated from the hustle and bustle of the city and noise. You get the peacefulness and quiet of being on the lake but with this beautiful, glowing city in the distance.
by Dave Olsen, Founder and Owner of Kayak Chicago
Lake Michigan - Good to Know
Intermediate
Late spring through early autumn
Weather depending
Cityside
3. Wisconsin River
Big sandy beaches, wide open river, and endless bluffs covered in nothing but forest.
by Ryan Schmudlach, Wisconsin Canoe Company
Wisconsin River - Good to Know
Beginner
Late spring through early autumn
Class I: Easy
Wide, gentle river
No glass, pets welcome
Depending on traffic and your starting point, you’ll either take I-94 straight north or I-90 W, finally getting on Route 14 after Madison the rest of the way
4. Skokie Lagoons
There’s an island you can loop around, and on a nice overcast day you’ll get a bunch of herring, even families of deer, and we have 2 bald eagles. Definitely a highlight of the area.
by Daniel Feldman, Kayak Launcher
Skokie Lagoons - Good to Know
Beginner
Late spring through early autumn
Class I: Easy
Narrow, winding lagoons
Life vests required (included with rentals), pets welcome
Take I-90W to the Edens Expressway, exit at Willow road in 10 miles and you’re there.
5. The Chicago River
It’s a great, active way to explore the city, and kayaking through downtown gives you a unique perspective on the architecture — one you won’t get from the boat tours.
by Melissa Anderson, Urban Kayaks General Manager
The Chicago River - Good to Know
Beginner
Late spring through early autumn
Class I: Easy
City
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