Outdoor Activity- Kayaking.

I have continually made efforts in showing everyone may favorite restaurants within the West Suburbs of Chicago, and have noticed I haven't made a great enough attempt at pointing everyone in the right direction in regards to leisurely or outdoors activity.

Sure, many people may enjoy to golf, but that isn't the outdoors experience you're looking for? Luckily enough, the Geneva/St. Charles/Batavia (and further) have the Fox River within their backyard. The Fox River starts in Green Bay WI, and stretches through WI, and through the majority of IL as well. While the river is much larger in Green Bay than this area, it is hazardous to  swim in specific areas.

Image Courtesy of www.tedvillaire.com

Recent efforts by kayakers/boaters/general users of the Fox River for the clean-up of  the river have given great emphasis on what a luxury this body of water really is and has also shown in increase in boater and fishing traffic in the lower areas (Geneva).

My recomendation is to take advantage of this natural body of water, and bring out the entire family. The Geneva Kayak Center (locatated at 34 N. Bennett, Geneva IL) has everything from kayaks, sea kayaks, to paddle boats that everyone in the family can enjoy. The shop can also boast that they are the only BCU (British Canoe Union) certified teaching center between the East and West coasts. So, if you're concerned about your first time out on the water, you'll be in great hands and under some of the best tutilidge in the country.

Rentals

• Rentals

Rentals

Geneva Kayak Center has recreational, light touring and sea kayaks available for rent. Rental costs include the use of a pfd, paddle and sprayskirt (for sea kayaks). Rentals may be transported to other paddling locations.

Rates

Boat Type		2 Hours		4 Hours		Full-Day		2+ Days*
Plastic Single Kayak		$30		$40		$60		$45
Plastic Double Kayak		$40		$60		$80		$60
Fiberglass Single Kayak**		$45		$60		$80		$70
Fiberglass Double Kayak**		$60		$80		$100		$90
Whitewater Kayak		$30		$40		$60		$45

*2+ Day prices are listed as per day rates. ** Please contact Geneva Kayak Center to check availability.

Another Kayak destination not too far away is the Whitewater Recreation Facility at Bicentennial Riverfront Park in Yorkville, IL.

http://www.yorkville.il.us/GlenPalmerDamUpdate.php

This area provides a 'whitewater simulation' ranging in areas for  the beginner to the more  experienced. It's a nice alternative to certain areas of the Fox that contain low-head dams (which have caused numerous deaths over the last 50 or so years).

All in all, kayak is affordable and a bonding family activity. Just make sure when you go out to paddle you wear a life jacket, paddle wisely, and have fun!