The waterways of northeastern Illinois give a unique perspective of our region. Quiet stretches of waterway offer a respite from urban life as well as an opportunity to enjoy and explore nature, while paddling the urban canyons of downtown Chicago offers spectacular views of the city.

To preserve and enhance these wonderful outdoor resources for non-motorized boat traffic Openlands works with water trails partners toward implementing the objectives of the Northeastern Illinois Regional Water Trail Plan. The mission of the plan is to provide access, through the development of information and infrastructure, to our local waterways for the enjoyment of our region’s residents and visitors. Water trails consist of a series of access sites for non-motorized boats along a waterway, tied together by signage that guides paddlers along the way.

The northeastern Illinois regional water trails system includes ten water trails that offer ready access to almost three hundred miles of rivers and waterways, as well as Lake Michigan. If you are planning to paddle, check out the “For Paddlers” link on the left; there you’ll find plenty of information about trips and paddling in northeastern Illinois.