Chicago River in Illinois

Trip Overview

Put in at Clark Park on Rockwell just south of Addison. You have to carry or drag your boat for a couple hundred yards from the parking lot to the river, but it wasn't bad. The bank was a little steep with loose gravel but take your time and you'll be fine. Easy put in place with a gentle slope to the bottom of the river so there is no trouble getting in or out of your boat. We went north to Montrose and turned around.

The trip lasted a little over an hour. It was a very easy paddle with little or no noticeable current. Saw many turtles, herons, and other urban birds. A few power boats came by but the channel is plenty wide and they aren't supposed to make any wake so it wasn't an issue.

About the only draw back is the smell. It is a slow moving urban river so there is very distinct odor. I'm sure the lack of any significant rain for a long time also plays into that.

Accommodations:

Parking lot for about 10 cars, ample street parking.

Fees:

No fees.

Directions:

Off Rockwell, 2600 west, just south of Addison, 3600 north.