Class I-II Lake Michigan, IL

Many partners and states are working toward developing a continuous four state water trail that traverses the entire shore line of Lake Michigan. In 2009, a section of the Lake Michigan Water Trail extending from the Chicago Park District’s Leone Beach at Touhy Avenue south along Chicago’s Lakefront and east along the entire shoreline of Indiana was designated a National Recreational Trail. All four states surrounding Lake Michigan shoreline are working to complete and improve the Lake Michigan Water Trail. A trail on Lake Michigan presents considerations unlike those of the other water trails. A lake trail is defined only by the location of the access points. The distance paddlers can go from shore, the potential for high wind and waves, and high-speed power boat traffic can make paddling on the lake a challenge even for experienced users. For these reasons, paddling on Lake Michigan is recommended only for paddlers with proper boats (sea kayak), equipment, and skills appropriate to the water and weather conditions. Paddling with a group or experienced partner is strongly recommended. (Source: Openlands)