It's the last (unofficial) weekend of summer. Whatever you do, don't stay inside! Enjoy the 70 degree weather and consider a day or two spent exploring Chicago's wilderness to the max. You'll almost forget that you live in the Midwest.
Kayak
Get your time on the water in now while the season lasts! Whether you're cruising near cormorants and muskrats in the peaceful Skokie Lagoons, finding snapping turtles in the Chicago launch or paddling through choppy waters on Lake Michigan, you'll appreciate every second spent in your little kayak. Consider signing up for a sea kayaking class, or just rent a boat for a few hours.
Chicago Kayak
Chicago River Paddle
Northwest Passage
Climb Rocks
Yes, Illinois has rocks to climb. Pack your car and set up a day trip with your friends, whether you're a beginner or have biceps of steel from weekends spent fondling your local gym's plastic rock wall. Bouldering is available at many of these locations, too. Head out tonight or tomorrow, and include a tent for a night of camping.
Ten Rock Climbing Spots near Chicago
Volunteer
Okay, I know - it's Labor Day Weekend, why fill it with manual labor? Because there's nothing more rejuvenating than a day spent outside, sleeves pushed up, hands getting dirty, surrounded by nature and a few good people. I've spent vacation time lopping seedlings in a Utah desert with Wilderness Volunteers and a handful of weekends pulling mustard plugs and sizing up buckthorn throughout Illinois. The fresh air is always worth it.
There are plenty of volunteer opportunities through the Park District. Activities may include trail maintenance, invasive plant species removal, brush cutting, seeding, or planting. Tools provided.
September 6, 2-5pm
McCormick Bird Sanctuary, 2400 S. Lake Shore Drive
Ages 18 and up. Please call ahead: 312.742.4072 for exact meeting location.
September 9, 9am-noon
North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski
Ages youth (+adult) and up. Call Bob Porter, 312.744.5472 for more info.
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