ROWING VENUES
Join us in exploring and rowing in different waterways within our community and wider
North SHORE CHANNEL
The North Shore Channel is a hidden gem amidst the urban sprawl of the Chicago suburbs. It's a remarkable ribbon of green, snaking through the concrete jungle, offering a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. It flows from Lake Michigan in Wilmette, to the North Branch of Chicago River in Chicago.
The North Shore Channel is a true treasure trove of natural beauty and tranquility, a place where you can escape the urban chaos and reconnect with nature. It's also a sanctuary for wildlife and a haven for those seeking a peaceful escape. Row with us and explore this hidden gem and experience its unique charm.
Meeting spot at this location is at the Dammrich Rowing Center (DRC). This is also the location for of our indoor rowing classes. Map
Address:
3220 Oakton St, Skokie, IL 60076
LAKE MICHIGAN
Lloyd Beach, Winnetka
Lloyd Beach and Stepan Family Boat Launch provide access to Lake Michigan for non-motorized and motorized boating.
This location offers a great opportunity for different types of rowing activities such as long steady state workouts for experienced rowers, leisured rows for recreation, coastal rowing for adventure, and fun introduction to the sport for beginners.
In case of challenging weather and water conditions, we may cancel the sessions. An alternative location may be provided.
Meeting spot at this location is at the Lolyd beach, in front of the building.
Address:
799 Sheridan Rd, Winnetka, IL 60093
BUSSE LAKE
Busse Lake is a reservoir nestled within the Ned Brown Nature Preserve (Busse Woods) located between Rolling Meadows and Elk Grove Village. Created by damming Salt Creek, the lake offers a diverse ecosystem of woodlands, wetlands, and open spaces, and is a true haven for recreation and wildlife observation.
The lake itself is divided into a North and South pool, connected by winding, scenic canals. Boat ramps on both pools allow for easy launching and docking, making them ideal spots for sculling, whether it is learning your first strokes or enjoying a tranquil morning row.
Meeting spot at this location is the South Pool Boat Launch area.
Address:
Busse Lake South Pool Boat Launch, E Higgins Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
skokie lagoons
Currently, we do not have access to Skokie Lagoons but are exploring the options to obtain it in the future.
If you are looking for a place to explore and enjoy nature, lagoons are a great option. With their diverse plant and animal life, lagoons offer a unique and immersive experience.
Navigating the narrow canals that weave through the lagoons and lead you from one lake into another is an exciting challenge. These winding waterways are often hidden from sight, making this experience a journey of discovery.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to connect with nature, the lagoons offer an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Meeting spot at this location is at Tower Road Boat Launch parking lot. Map
Address:
Tower Road Boat Launch, Tower Rd, Northfield, IL 60093
LAKE GLENVIEW
Currently, we do not have access to Lake Glenview but are exploring the options to obtain it in the future.
Lake Glenview is an excellent location for beginner rowing programs and camps due to its protected waters and ample space for learning fundamental rowing techniques. The lake's sheltered environment provides a safe and comfortable setting for novices to develop their skills without the added challenge of open water conditions. Additionally, the lake's size offers sufficient room for beginners to practice maneuvering their boats and executing various rowing strokes without feeling overly crowded or restricted.
Meeting spot at this location is a parking lot at the north side of the lake. Map
Address:
2553 W Lake Avenue, Glenview, IL
BECK LAKE
Currently, we do not have access to Beck Lake but are exploring the options to obtain it in the future.
Beck Lake in West Glenview is an excellent location for beginner rowing programs and camps
It is smaller in size and provides great water conditions for most of the times. It has an oval shape with island in the middle, which makes it easy to do laps and navigate the waters.
The lake has a boat launch, a peer, and a small sandy beach that all together makes it easy to launch and dock the boats.
Meeting spot at this location is the Boat Launch area, which is all the way past the parking lot.
Address:
Beck Lake Boat Launch, E River Rd. , Glenview, IL 60025
other locations
A few of our other preferred but not regular rowing locations are:
-
Gilson Beach, Lake Michigan
-
Des Plaines River
In the winter, when the snow conditions allow, we organize group cross-country skiing at the Wilmette Golf course.
In the summer, we organize a group MTB rides at the Des Plaines River Trail.
