Explore Stunning Fall Colors on the Batavia Kayak Adventure Along Fox River
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners with average fitness who can paddle for a few hours at a gentle pace.
Overview
Discover Batavia’s vibrant autumn colors on a guided kayak tour down the Fox River, featuring stops at local landmarks and chances to spot bald eagles. Perfect for all skill levels and capped off with a treat from a beloved bakery.
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 change quickly on the river; dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable throughout the tour.
Bring a waterproof bag
Keep your belongings dry by using a waterproof bag or case during the kayak tour.
Use sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the midday sun, even on cooler fall days.
Watch for wildlife respectfully
Maintain a safe distance from bald eagles and other wildlife to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagle
- Great blue heron
History
Cave of the Spirit carries local indigenous legends and reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Fox River area.
Conservation
The guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles and support local conservation efforts to maintain the river’s pristine condition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
Provides safety on the water, required for all kayakers.
fall specific
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps personal items dry during the river paddle.
fall specific
Layered clothing
Allows adjustment to changing temperatures on the river.
fall specific
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects against sun exposure during the tour.
fall specific