Kayak Chicago River Rentals (Le Moyne Street)

Kayak Chicago operates single and double kayak rentals from 1220 W Le Moyne St on the North Branch of the Chicago River in Illinois, United States, in the Goose Island and River West area. The activity is self-guided flatwater paddling with access to the downtown river confluence at Wolf Point, about three miles one way. The difficulty is easy: no technical skill is needed, though basic fitness and the ability to swim are expected, and a round trip to Wolf Point takes a few hours of steady paddling. Visitors who prefer shorter outings can paddle locally by the hour. Rental prices are about $30 USD per hour or $90 USD per day for a single kayak and about $40 USD per hour or $120 USD per day for a double, according to the operator's listing at kayakchicago.com. Kayak, paddle and life jacket are provided, and visitors should bring sun protection, water and closed shoes. The shop is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in season. Kayak Chicago is a local rental business, and its staff explain the route, the right-hand traffic pattern on the river and how to give way to larger vessels. Safety guidance covers life jacket use, staying near the banks away from tour boats and returning before the shop closes, and staff can be reached by phone if a paddler needs help. The North Branch is quieter than the downtown Riverwalk, so the route suits first-time paddlers who want to avoid heavy boat traffic, although wakes increase as paddlers approach Wolf Point. The season runs from spring through early fall, with the best window from May to September. Conditions to avoid are thunderstorms, lightning, strong wind and periods after heavy rain, when currents and debris can make the river unsafe. Weekday paddles are calmer than weekends, and evenings offer cooler temperatures and attractive light as the sun sets behind the skyline.