CHICAGO KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddle the Wild Mile: Hour-Long Kayak Rentals from North Avenue into Chicago’s Skyline
One-hour single or double kayak rentals from Kayak Chicago that put beginners and families on the river to explore Goose Island, the Wild Mile and the Wolf Point confluence.
Paddle the Wild Mile: Hour-Long Kayak Rentals from North Avenue into Chicago’s Skyline.
Launch just off North Avenue onto the north branch of the Chicago River and slip past wildlife, industrial islands and the city’s glass-and-steel canyons. In an hour you can sample the Wild Mile, circle Goose Island and reach the confluence at Wolf Point — all while using the largest fleet of single and double kayaks in Chicago, an easy option for first-timers and families.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Chicago’s largest single & double kayak fleet
Kayak Chicago operates the city’s largest fleet of single and double recreational kayaks, letting you choose a solo boat or share a double for a family-friendly paddling session.
Paddle the Wild Mile and circle Goose Island
The standard hour-long outing takes paddlers through the Wild Mile — a stretch alive with ducks, turtles, beaver and birds — and offers easy access to Goose Island for close-up urban exploration.
Canyon views and the Wolf Point confluence
From quieter, tucked-away river sections to the confluence at Wolf Point, the trip delivers skyline vistas and encounters with historic bridges and architecture as you paddle toward Lake Shore Drive or downstream neighborhoods.
What the day feels like
What an hour on the river feels like
The outing is compact and urban: a brief launch from a shop just off North Avenue, steady paddling through the Wild Mile’s wildlife and island edges, then a run toward the river’s confluence where downtown towers close in. It’s paced for recreational paddlers — accessible to novices and families, but still rewarding for anyone who wants a close-up view of Chicago from the water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
All rentals are booked by the hour; you reserve and pay for the first hour and may extend your time on the water. Rentals are pro-rated after the first hour by the quarter hour.
The outfitter’s kayak shops 'have everything you need for your urban adventure' — recreational kayaks and necessary outfitting are provided, so bring weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection and any personal items you want on the water.
The operator’s location is on the north branch of the Chicago River, conveniently located just off North Avenue; check in at the office before and after your outing.
If you stay out past your first hour staff will add time to your booking upon return; return rentals by operator closing (typically 7pm in summer, 6pm in September) — charges are updated using hourly rates and cease increasing after the first three hours.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the standard rental?
Standard rentals are sold by the hour; you book the first hour and may extend on the water. Additional time is pro-rated by the quarter hour.
Do I need kayaking experience?
No prior experience is required for recreational kayaks — some athletic ability is recommended, but the rental is beginner-friendly.
Can children come out on the kayaks?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult on a double kayak.
Are discounts available for booking online?
Yes — the operator advertises a $2-per-person savings when you reserve online.
Can I use a sea kayak?
Sea kayaks are available only to paddlers who have completed the operator’s sea kayaking courses or who can demonstrate equivalent rescue skills.
What do I do when I return?
You must check out in the office with staff when you return so the operator knows you are off the water and can settle any additional time charges.