Explore Stunning Fall Foliage on the Batavia Fall Colors Guided Kayak Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic upper-body strength and be comfortable sitting and paddling for a few hours.
Overview
Paddle through Illinois’ Fox River surrounded by the fiery palette of fall foliage on this guided kayak tour in historic Batavia. A perfect seasonal escape for nature lovers and adventurers near Chicago.
Batavia Fall Colors Guided Kayak Tour
All Skill Levels • 3 Hours • Experience fall foliage from Fox River!
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About This Adventure
Experience the vibrant fall colors on a guided kayak tour down the scenic Fox River. This 3-hour adventure includes stops at local gems like the Cave of the Spirit and Harner’s Bakery for delicious donuts. Encounter diverse wildlife and receive expert instruction, making it perfect for all skill levels.
This guided, fall kayak tour down the tree-lined Fox River offers the best view of the warm, fall foliage!
Duration
3 Hours
About
This guided, morning kayak tour, along the tree-lined Fox River, stops along the way at local favorites, such as the Cave of the Spirit at Red Oak Nature Center and the bald eagle’s nest by Mooseheart School.
The final stop before the end of the trip will be at Harner’s Bakery, where you can enjoy one of their famous donuts! You’ll find yourself in close contact with local Kane County wildlife, such as bald eagles, osprey, deer, beaver, muskrat, great blue heron, egret, kingfisher, and many more. This tour is perfect for all skill levels; it includes a dam in North Aurora that we will portage around and is easy to do.
More info
The tour begins at the Aurora Athletic Club, where participants will park their cars and be shuttled up to Glenwood Park Forest Preserve. Upon arrival at the park, participants will be given paddles and personal flotation devices, sized for kayaks, and receive dryland instruction for the following skills:
- How to kayak in a straight line
- How to steer
- How to stop
- How to stay upright and comfortable
Once the instruction is over, the guide will assist you in getting your boat into the water, and you’ll be ready to start your trip! Participants must be 15 years of age and at least 100lbs. To be in a tandem kayak with an adult, children must be at least 30 pounds and be able to follow directions.
What we provide:
- Kayak
- Personal flotation device (PFD)
- Shuttle
- Paddle
- Guide
Adventure Tips
Wear layered clothing
Temperatures can vary widely on the water during fall—dress in moisture-wicking layers to stay comfortable.
Bring a waterproof phone case
Protect your electronics from splash and brief rain during your kayak excursion.
Apply biodegradable sunscreen
Even in cooler weather, UV rays reflect off the water; use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect skin and river health.
Secure your gear
Use dry bags and secure loose items to prevent loss while paddling.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue heron
- White-tailed deer
History
Batavia’s development was closely tied to the Illinois & Michigan Canal constructed in the 1840s, which helped open the Midwest to commerce and recreation.
Conservation
The tour operator emphasizes low-impact paddling practices to preserve the river’s delicate ecosystem and surrounding habitats.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable kayaking clothing
Allows mobility and warmth during paddling.
fall specific
Waterproof jacket
Protects from wind and potential rain on the river.
fall specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated especially during active paddling.
Dry bag
Keeps personal items dry during the tour.