News & Guides

A Weekend on the Water in Starved Rock Country:...

A two-day Ottawa itinerary combining kayaks, eBikes, the I&M Canal Trail, Starved Rock State Park and the Illinois River.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding Near Starved Rock: A ...

Where to kayak and paddleboard near Starved Rock and Ottawa, IL, from Heritage Harbor to the Illinois and Fox Rivers, plus launch tips and safety basics.

Kayak Fishing on the Illinois River: Species, S...

A local guide to kayak fishing the Illinois River near Ottawa and Starved Rock, with target species, where to look, safety and a rigging checklist.

Illinois eBike Laws Explained: Classes, Age Rul...

What Illinois eBike classes mean, who can ride, where you can go, and what the new state law (SB 3484) changes on January 1, 2027.

Riding the I&M Canal State Trail by eBike from ...

Mileage, surfaces, towns and stops for riding the I&M Canal State Trail by eBike from Heritage Harbor in Ottawa.

Hobie Mirage Drive Kayak Buyer's Guide: Which P...

A plain-spoken guide to choosing a Hobie Mirage Drive pedal kayak, from Compass and Outback to Pro Angler and iTrek inflatables.