Kayak through Kane County’s beautiful waters and wrap up your trip with live blues music at the Aurora Athletic Club. Experience wildlife, music, and community on this unique evening cruise.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners to moderate fitness enthusiasts; basic paddling stamina recommended for a comfortable experience.
Wildlife
History
The Fox River has been a vital part of Kane County’s development, serving as a transportation route and habitat for native species.
Conservation
Howling Wolfe partners with local groups to promote river cleanups and protect aquatic habitats in the region.
Howling Wolfe Canoe & Kayak
Kayak through Kane County’s beautiful waters and wrap up your trip with live blues music at the Aurora Athletic Club. Experience wildlife, music, and community on this unique evening cruise.
Howling Wolfe Canoe & Kayak is a North Aurora, Illinois outfitter offering guided kayak tours, instructional classes, and self-guided rentals on the Fox River. The business runs a range of experiences including fall colors tours in Batavia and North Aurora, evening paddles such as Sunsets & S’mores and the North Aurora–Aurora guided tour, a Blues Cruise that pairs paddling with live music at the Aurora Athletic Club, and a self-guided North Aurora rental option.
Instructional programs include Introduction to Kayaking Level 1, Introduction to Kayaking Level 2, Introduction to River Kayaking, and Kayak Rescues and Recovery. Several classes and rescue courses are taught by certified instructors and are designed for beginners through intermediate paddlers. Guided tours commonly include wildlife viewing—bald eagles, herons, and deer are frequently seen—and features like the Cave of the Spirit and stops at Harner’s Bakery on select trips. Trip durations range from approximately 30 minutes up to three hours, accommodating short floats, after-work paddles, and longer guided outings.
Howling Wolfe emphasizes safety and skill development through hands-on instruction, guided excursions, and rescue practice. Tours are suitable for all skill levels, with some experiences timed for sunset or paired with evening activities such as campfires and live blues music. Equipment and on-water guidance are provided for classes and guided tours, with shuttle service mentioned for select fall color outings. Reservations and scheduling are available for public tours, private groups, instruction, and rentals through online booking and phone.
Location
North Aurora, IL
Launches on the Fox River
Trip Durations
30–180 min
Short floats to three-hour tours
Skill Levels
All skill levels
Beginner-friendly classes & rentals
Tours Offered
10
Guided tours, classes & rentals
Choose guided tours, family evenings, rescue practice, or self-guided rentals in North Aurora — book online or by phone.
Wear a life jacket at all times
Safety first—life jackets are required by law and provide peace of mind on the water.
Bring insect repellent
Evenings on the water can attract mosquitoes, especially near wooded shorelines.
Check weather before your trip
Conditions can change quickly in the Midwest—avoid kayaking during storms or high winds.
Arrive early for parking and setup
The launch area can get busy; arriving early ensures a smooth start to your adventure.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Required for safety and mandatory during the kayaking cruise.
Water-resistant flashlight or headlamp
Helps navigate and enhances safety during evening paddling after sunset.
summer
Lightweight insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and other bugs near the water.
spring
Layered clothing
Allows for warmth and flexibility as temperatures drop in the evening.
fall