Buffalo Park Forest Preserve to Voyageurs Landing Forest Preserve

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Skill level: Beginner to Intermediate

Length: Approximately 7 miles

Directions: Buffalo Park Forest Preserve, owned by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County,  is located just east of Route 31, at the end of South Street, in Algonquin. Voyageur's Landing Forest Preserve, also owned by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, is located one mile east of Route 31, just north of I-90, at the east end of Airport Road, in Elgin.

Notes: There are at least four landings or access areas with picnic facilities, camping, and nearby hotels and restaurants in Algonquin, Carpentersville, West Dundee, East Dundee, and Elgin. This scenic trip also provides good wildlife viewing in several areas. The portage at Carpentersville Dam is a good place to rest and enjoy exhibits detailing the history of the Fox River. Just downstream of the dam, the water is often shallow and turbulent—stay to the left of the island to avoid some unforeseen obstacles. Elgin’s Trout Park has a canoe launch for people with disabilities. There is an alternative take-out, located a short distance downstream on the opposite (east) side of the river, across from Voyageurs Landing. Both of these sites are within view of I-90. The Forest Preserve District of Kane County is largely responsible for maintenance of this stretch of the water trail.

Always check United States Geological Survey (USGS) water data before your trip.