We will meet at Yale Bridge on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at about 9:07 AM. The canoe launch is north of Sugar River Forest Preserve as shown in the map below. We will shuttle at 9:37 and try to be on the water 10ish.
The lower Sugar River is a winding river for moderate paddlers. It is usually a somewhat slower current however it is at higher water levels it can be stronger. It is has a sand bottom with some tree dams to go around. The section of the sugar we will run is from Yale Bridge Road to Two Rivers Forest Preserve. The trip will be all down river except for the last 1500 feet going upstream on the Pecatonica River to the take out in Two Rivers Forest Preserve. Bring a lunch or snack as we will be stopping on a sand bar along way if we can find one. I will go over a few pointers about paddling on a river just before we put in for the beginners if we have any.
The short trip will be 7.6 miles or about 3.5 hours weather permitting of course. If you want to do a longer trip you can also paddle to Macktown that is about 16 miles.  Jeff Reuter will be hosting this paddle for more info call me on my cell at 815-494-8502. Here is a map of where we will be.
The usual rules apply including but not limited to: Participants provide their own suitable canoe or kayak, paddle(s), PFD/approved life jackets, and wear PFD on water Minors must be accompanied by responsible adult Adults must sign in on waiver sheet Hydration/drinking water BYO Lunch, BYO Dump bag – Dry bag w/change of clothing
Members of Stateline paddlers and guests welcome
Members of Prairie State Canoeists and guests welcome
I will also attach a map below