Fabyan Forest Preserve to Illinois Avenue Boat Launch

Skill level: Intermediate or Beginner (with an experienced guide)

Length: Approximately 7.1 miles
 
Directions: Fabyan Forest Preserve, also owned by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, is located just east of Route 31 and just north of Fabyan Parkway, in Geneva. The Illinois Avenue boat launch, owned by the Fox Valley Park District, is located in Illinois Avenue Island Park, in Aurora.

Notes: This trip has twenty-seven islands to explore and three moderately difficult portages. To improve recreational paddling and restore this stretch of the river to better health, the two dams in Batavia are destined to be significantly modified and/or removed.  A continuous bike path follows along the water trail, passing through properties of the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, Batavia, and the Fox Valley Park District.

Between the two access sites, there are at least eleven landings or access areas with picnic facilities, hiking and biking trails, ball fields, a riverwalk, nearby hotels and restaurants, in Batavia, North Aurora, and Aurora.

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