Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to some common questions about paddling from our community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to some common questions about paddling from our community.
Can I get hard copies of water trail maps?
Openlands does not have hard copy maps except for the African American Heritage Water Trail. You can use the interactive mapping function to create a custom map on screen and then print it.
How can I report a problem on a water trail?
To report a problem on a water trail in Illinois, please visit Illinois Paddling Council.
Illinois Water TrailKeepers will then attempt to work with local authorities to resolve it.
Where can I rent a boat for a paddling trip?
Openlands is not an outfitter, so we do not rent any equipment.
Linked here are outfitters that rent canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and equipment, as well as organizations that offer guided trips on many Northeastern Illinois Water Trails. Please note this is not a comprehensive list of local outfitters.
Paddle tips & Resources
Connecting people to nature where they live.
As innovative protectors and stewards of the land since 1963, Openlands exists to create access to nature for all. Through local alliances, forward vision, and persistent action, Openlands connects and leads conservation work, serving as a guiding voice for communities, organizations, and more effective policy in northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region.
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Can I get hard copies of water trail maps?
Openlands does not have hard copy maps except for the African American Heritage Water Trail. You can use the interactive mapping function to create a custom map on screen and then print it.
How can I report a problem on a water trail?
To report a problem on a water trail in Illinois, please visit Illinois Paddling Council.
Illinois Water TrailKeepers will then attempt to work with local authorities to resolve it.
Where can I rent a boat for a paddling trip?
Openlands is not an outfitter, so we do not rent any equipment.
Linked here are outfitters that rent canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and equipment, as well as organizations that offer guided trips on many Northeastern Illinois Water Trails. Please note this is not a comprehensive list of local outfitters.