I am not at all an advanced kayaker or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) person. I’m no authority on the subject. I’ve kayaked a few times on the Chicago River and in other cities with groups, but only as a tourist or casual paddler. I am a novice on a stand up paddleboard.

I was intrigued to recently learn about the Chicago Water Trails during an introductory paddleboard lesson. On Lake Michigan the Water Trail runs for many miles along the lakefront. On the Chicago River the Water Trail runs along a much shorter distance.

  • State of Illinois DNR Lake Michigan Water Trail Access Sites map
    • This map references the Lake Michigan National Recreational Water Trail, Michigan Great Lakes Water Trails, and the Lake Michigan State Water Trail (WI)
  • City of Chicago Chicago River Water Trail Map
    • This map references Chicago River human-powered water craft launch Access Points

Apparently, markers or other indicators are placed in the water and/or near docks at the launch/access points referenced in the municipal maps above. The maps note the allowed locations to launch a kayak or paddleboard or a similar watercraft.

From anecdotal experience I’ve heard that the seasonal lifeguards are often unaware of the Water Trails. They may try to incorrectly stop people from launching in places where access is typically permitted.