Tour Our Local Waterways by Kayak with the Forest Preserve District of Kane County & Reap the Benefits that Kayaking Brings
GENEVA— Kayaking during the warmer months offers many benefits for both physical and mental well-being. The gentle lapping of water against the kayak and the warm sun overhead create a serene environment that can reduce stress and anxiety levels. Paddling provides a full-body workout, strengthening muscles and improving cardiovascular health. Additionally, being out on the water allows kayakers to connect with nature, providing a sense of peace and tranquility. Luckily, you can enjoy kayaking locally all summer long!
The kayaking series begins with a lake-based, basic paddling skills class, followed by shorter and less-strenuous river sessions. As the summer progresses, choose increasingly longer and more technical paddles for intermediate skill levels. Each session, participants will receive dry-land instruction on basic kayaking techniques from an experienced instructor. Afterward, we’ll take to the water for a naturalist-led exploration of the fascinating local ecology. Participants meet and park at the take-out location and are shuttled to the put-in location.
Participants may choose any number of sessions; you can take one, two or all six.
For all sessions, participants must be 16 years or older and able to:
1. Hold breath under water while wearing a properly fitted life jacket;
2. Independently turn from a face-down to a face-up position, keeping head above water;
3. Effectively communicate with the instructor and other participants; and,
4. Manage all mobility and personal care independently, or with the assistance of a companion.
Dates and meeting locations for sessions are below:
Session 1: (Novice Skills Training; Less than 1 mile paddle):
Saturday, June 1; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Meeting at: Oakhurst Forest Preserve, 1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora.
Session 2: (Beginner; 4 mile paddle):
Sunday, June 23; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Meeting at: Fox River Shores Forest Preserve, 716 Williams Rd., Carpentersville
Session 3: (Beginner/Intermediate; 4-5 mile paddle):
Sunday, July 14; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Meeting at: Voyageur Landing Forest Preserve, 50 Airport Rd., Elgin
Session 4: (Intermediate; 5.5 miles with portage):
Saturday, Aug. 17; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Meeting at: McCullough Park, 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
Session 5: (Intermediate; 6 miles with picnic lunch):
Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Meeting at: Fox River Shores Forest Preserve, 716 Williams Rd., Carpentersville
Session 6: (Intermediate; 5.5 miles with portage):
Sunday, Oct. 6; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Meeting at: McCullough Park, 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora.
The fee for a single kayak for Session 1 is $69 per person and includes use of kayak, personal flotation device and paddle; it is $89 per person for Sessions 2-6. If you provide your own kayak and equipment, the fee is $45 per person, per session, for sessions 2-6. All fees include shuttle service. Advance registration is required at least one week prior to the program, with payment required at the time of registration.
To register, visit www.kaneforest.com/register. Rain will not stop a paddle, but trips may be cancelled (with full refund) due to lightning, low air/water temps, or unsafe water levels.
For more information, visit www.kaneforest.com or find the Forest Preserve District on social media by searching @forestpreserve.
