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Discover the breathtaking scenery by kayaking on the Fabulous Fox! National Water Trail, a Midwest paddling gem right in your backyard. This National Water Trail, spanning 158 miles, connects Wisconsin and Illinois for people who love to spend time in nature along the waterway.
The Fox River has 70 access points and offers opportunities for paddling, swimming, ice skating, fishing, hunting, and wildlife observing. There are several convenient access points along the river to launch a kayak, canoe, or just drift along on a tube for water exploration.
If you don’t want to kayak far, stop at McNamee Park in Downtown West Dundee or South End Park, both of which have boat launches and can be the perfect place to stop for a break. Another favorite location to visit is Trout Park in Elgin.
For a shorter trip, put in at Trout Park and get off the river just north of Gail Borden Public Library at Elgin’s Veteran Memorial Park. The Library has a little cafe and public restrooms for a comfort break.
Take a moment to visit Fox River Shores Forest Preserve, located alongside the river in Carpentersville, home to some unusually steep, swampy habitats with rare plants like Vanilla Grass, Tway Blade Orchid, and Turtle Head. In spring, the hills surrounding the Fox River blossom with Pink Flowering Crabapples and White Plums. Take advantage of the launch and bring your binoculars to fully enjoy this natural gem and its inhabitants.
Kane County has also created several new launches along the waterway to make kayaking and enjoying nature even easier! In Carpentersville, a new riverside launch will offer a concessions stand right off the water. SEBA Park in South Elgin has a new launch to complement the park’s accessible playground.
If you can’t bring your watercraft, rent one for the day. Kayak Myak Rentals will get you geared up for an adventure on the water. You can even join the group tours they offer.
There is also first-rate fishing along the Fox River, with many public spots to fish for bass, catfish, and walleye. Voyageur Landing, Kimball Street Dam, and South Elgin Dam are all spots where locals can be found fishing throughout the year. Anywhere along the Fox River in downtown Elgin will also showcase local fishermen, especially along Walton Island.
Get up close and personal along the Fox River by planning your paddling adventure today. Don’t forget your life jacket!
Visit Elgin
Explore the 158-mile Fox River National Water Trail with kayaking, fishing, scenic parks, wildlife viewing, and convenient launch points.
