Join us for Birding from Boats
Friends of the Chicago River and the Chicago Ornithological Society (COS) are teaming up for a special Birding from Boats paddle on Saturday, May 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join the president of COS and our expert canoe guides as we paddle the Chicago River in search of migrant warblers, waterfowl, swallows, and much more.
The special birding paddle will start at the River Park Boat Launch, 3000 W. Argyle St., in Chicago. All are welcome, from beginners to expert birders.
Registration is required. Members use the code: "Members" at registration. A list of birds spotted on a previous paddle is available here.
Friends’ canoe guides will help you safely load in and out of the boats, offer paddling instruction and answer questions. We provide boats, paddles, life jackets for this unforgettable experience. Paddlers 10-16 years are welcome when paddling with a guardian. Younger river lovers are welcome to sit in the center of the canoes and enjoy the experience with their families (no need to buy a ticket for center passengers).
As a special thank you for your support, all paddlers receive a complementary one-year Friends’ membership that includes:
- Invitations to special events
- Free entry to the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum
- Discounts on Friends paddles and other events
- Free subscription to our River Reporter newsletter
- Monthly Volunteer E-Newsletter and Bi-weekly Friends E-Newsletters.
Click here for other trip FAQs.
