Special Note on Lake Michigan Any kayak outing on Lake Michigan  has the potential to become an advanced paddle if conditions change. If we are at IL Beach State Park, there are multiple chances to pull out, but not the case in the city.  The city of Chicago has very limited kayak access as well as cement retaining walls which can make it impossible to change plans if the weather changes while we are out on the water. Be aware that if you sign up for a kayak outing on Lake Michigan, you can face these conditions. The wind and wave forecasts are just that, Forecasts.  You never know when things can change. If conditions worsen, we may be forced to cancel a paddle last minute, or upgrade the status/skill level of a paddle. You should be subscribed to our e-mail list to get these announcements.

Safety comes first!
Our skill level rating for each trip gives you an idea of what is needed to participate in a particular outing. Remember that these are guidelines, and each individual may be unique in their ability to qualify for a trip.  Trip leaders ultimately have the decision whether your skills are sufficient or not.

        Calm water/Beginner
Kayak Outings in Chicago
These trips are rated for beginner based on the calm water conditions, ease of launch, and multiple pull out spots in case of weather change or emergency.
Examples of these include, among others Skokie Lagoons, Busse Woods, North Channel, Devil's Lake

Transport: Parking is free, you can take the Metra up to Hubbards Woods and walk over, or ride your bike up the North Branch Trail.

Busse Woods (Elk Grove Village)
Close to many members who live West of the city, Busse is a very pretty lake, dotted by a few islands, and has plenty of bird life, as well as otters. We do not practice rescues here. There are leeches in the water (close to shore where water levels are low), as well as lower water quality, and silty bottoms. It is a beautiful place to paddle though and you can experience some amazing sunsets! The drive from Higgens to the Canoe Launch is just over a mile. 

Transport: Free Parking Speed limit in the park is 15 miles per hour, and they do ticket! No known public transport nearby. Carpooling is a great option here. If you are coming from the city, expect traffic and plan accordingly. Map

North Channel (Evanston/Skokie)
This will eventually get you all the way downtown, but we usually paddle north, to Wilmette and the Bahai Temple.  Lots of bird life, and some deer, but lower water quality. Never do rescues here!!!!!!!!!!

Tranpsort: Free Parking at the Skokie Rowing Center (on Oakton) this is where we launch. You can also take the Purple El line up to Main St in Evanston and walk/bike over. This is relatively close to the Chicago/Evanston Border. Bring a map, closest Intersection is Oakton and McCormick.  It is just west of Home Depot by a few hundred feet. If you are coming off of 94, Dempster Street is  the closest option. Take Dempster East to McCormick Blvd, then head Norh to Oakton. Right (east) on Oakton for about 50 feet, then left into the Rowing Center. 

Lake Michigan (Chicago Locations & Zion)
Beautiful water, and sandy beach launches.  These paddles are clearly a favorite for members. Please be sure your skill level is sufficient. You should have your own safety gear (pump, float bag, signaling devices, tow rope, spare paddle etc.  You don't have to own everything for your first trip out, but you should have some gear and gradually work up to owning all your own. The Coast Guard rules are that during the day, you must have at least one signaling device, at night, that goes up to three.

Examples of signaling devices
VHF radio, flares, whistle, air horn, cell phone, signal mirror, dye marker, white light visible for at least 1 mile. Remember, a strobe is to be used only for a Distress call, never just to light your way.

Kayak Launches we use in Chicago
Leone Beach - in Rogers Park
This is our least favorite evening spot, limited  car parking, no trailer parking, and beach launch is between cement wall and pilings. On really wavy days, this can be dangerous in the event of capsize. There are quite a few members who live in this area though, and it is close to the El or Metra for those who need public transport.

Tue morning paddles are out of this spot as parking is better and it is close to the Heartland Cafe, where we go for breakfast (for those who can stay) The mornings are generally calm.  On a typical Tue morning paddle, we launch at 8am and head north to Evanston and return to the parking area by 10am.  Those who need to get to work, can help bring the kayaks up to the parking lot, those who can stay help load, and then go to breakfast at the Cafe.

Wilson Beach - was closed last year, we are working to reopen. This is our favorite spot! Lots of free easy parking, safe area, protected shallow water for launching, easy and short carry to water. Know someone at the Park District? Let them know we would like access restored to this area!

Montrose Beach - Really long walk with boats to get there thru soft sand and volley ball nets. Hard to find, parking very difficult. It does have protected launch and is close to Wilson, but certainly not our first choice. Many members are unable to carry their boats this far without using a cart. You are tired before the paddle starts! So remember upon return, we have to carry everything back.  If you are not a strong person, this location might not be appropriate for you. Perks: Close to a bathroom and boat house which sells ice cream. If you are in the city, biking here might be a great option for you.

IL Beach State Park (Zion, IL)

This park offers 6 1/2 miles of sandy beaches and is on the IL/WI border. We frequently paddle up to WI and back on day trips, and on evening trips, paddle south or north for a just a few hours

Not finished with this one yet!