Paddling Trails
Comprising hundreds of miles of rivers and creeks, as well as Lake Michigan, the northeastern Illinois water trails system offers paddlers an uncommon view of our region—from the urban canyons of the Chicago River, offering spectacular views of downtown Chicago, to the quiet beauty of prairie streams along the DuPage River. These and dozens of terrific day trips on the area's major waterways (listed below) can be found on Openlands’ Northeastern Illinois Regional Water Trails Map.
Openlands and partner organizations work to protect and enhance these wonderful outdoor resources for non-motorized boat traffic through the Northeastern Illinois Regional Water Trails Plan. Heralded as the "Best Idea" in the August 2000 issue of Chicago Magazine, the plan establishes a vision for developing infrastructure and providing access to local waterways for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.
Chicago River Water Trails
Flowing through one of the most densely populated areas on earth, the Chicago River provides a variety of recreational opportunities—from the quiet beauty of the North Branch to the wide urban canyons of the Main Branch to the historic South Branch.
Lake Michigan Water Trails
The Illinois shore of Lake Michigan stretches sixty-eight miles, from the Indiana border, at Calumet Park, on the south side of Chicago, to the Wisconsin border, north of Winthrop Harbor, in Lake County.Nippersink Creek Water Trails
Nippersink Creek, a twenty-three-mile long creek with a 138 square mile watershed, is a major tributary of the Fox River and a safe stream for paddlers of all abilities.
Salt Creek Water Trails
Salt Creek consists of four sections, each offering a distinct paddling experience.More Articles...
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