The Course

Map and Course Description

The course begins at Oak Springs Road in Libertyville (road is one way west on race day, enter from St. Mary's Road) and ends at Dam #2 (Kensington Road) in Prospect Heights - approximately 18½ miles downstream.

Information about Off-Site Parking, Shuttle Buses & Canoe Pick-Up is available on our Parking Page.

Since 2010 there has been an optional mid-course take-out supported at Rivershire Park, approximately 9 Miles from the Start. This may be of particular appeal to participants who for whatever reason wish a shorter, albeit very enjoyable Canoe Marathon racing adventure. Rivershire Park is accessible from Londonderry Lane, west of Riverwoods Road and just north of Ryerson Nature Preserve. (See bottom of Map #1 or map in Mailback accompanying your boat numbers).

• Map 1 - Shows entire course.
• Maps 2 - Two larger scale maps.
• North Half of the Course.
• South Half of the Course.

Canoes/kayaks start in heats of 8 (by number) every 2 minutes beginning at 8AM. Numbers are assigned at registration time, first come - first served. Register early for a low number.

Dam #1 is a mandatory portage, unless announced otherwise at the start. Portage Dam #1 on the right. Two smaller dams, the Hollister Dam ½ mile above Route 60, and Daniel Wright Woods Dam, 1¼ miles south of Route 60, may be run, depending upon water level, paddling skill, possible boat damage, and loss of time if you dump.

Water depth may vary. Some years the river has been near flood stage and people have been required to wear PFD's. Other years we have had to portage over all the dams. Generally the water level is 4 to 6 feet deep in most parts of the river.

Most of the course is bounded on both sides of the river by wooded forest preserve land or golf courses.

There is a radio checkpoint at each bridge. You may be asked your boat number as you pass. If you need assistance, they can radio for help or try to get a message to your "pit crew".

There are several viewing areas along the way - the most popular being at Dam #1 and at the former site of Ryerson Dam (a 1/2 mile walk from the parking lot of Ryerson Nature Center).

After the race plan to partake in the special commemorative and nature exhibits, food and entertainment at the Finish Area.

A free shuttle is available to bring paddlers (not canoes) back to the start line. Final Departure at 5:00 pm.