On August 22, 2023, CMGT participated in a kayaking event organized by SUM along the Des Plaines River under the guidance of expert staff from the Forest Preserve of Cook County (FPCC).
This is our second kayaking event this year. The first one was Intro to Kayaking at Trailside Nature Center, River Forest.
Due to the extreme weather, there were sudden changes to the timing and location to ensure the comfort and safety of all attendees. Last month was the hottest August on record going back 174 years, according to NOAA. It is understandable if many potential attendees were unable to attend the event.
Fortunately, the heat was not that bad while we were at Schuth’s Grove, the FPCC site where we launched our kayak. This location was opened a year ago and is accessible to the public every day of the year.
Overall, paddling along Des Plaines River was a fun and unique experience. We enjoyed the tranquility of the river, cool temperature, beautiful views of nature and the surrounding landscape. Our paddling event was ended at another FPCC’s location, Plank Road Meadow Boat Launch.
Photos by Kathleen Hinkel
