McKinley to McKinley Paddle and Hike
Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Fee: $20 per person.
Age: Ages 14 or older. Participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Contact: 815-722-9470
Location: McKinley Woods — Frederick's Grove
Event details
Take a vacation day for this full day of fun. Start the morning with a comfortable 2.5-mile hike along the river to find a fleet of kayaks waiting for you at McKinley Woods – Kerry Sheridan Grove. After a quick lunch break, forge out on the Des Plaines River. Spot river islands, birds and lots of fish during the two-hour paddle.
Event requirements
Registration required by phone by Friday, Aug. 28: 815-722-9470.
Wear shoes and clothes that are comfortable for hiking. Don’t forget your lunch, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a water bottle, and consider extra shoes for paddling.
This program is for advanced paddlers and enthusiastic hikers. Traveling this distance requires constant paddling. All equipment is provided, including personal flotation devices.
The program will start and end at McKinley Woods – Frederick’s Grove. Both the launch and trail from parking lot are paved. The paddle will be about 3.25 miles long, and the hike will be at least 2.5 miles long on natural surfaces. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the program.