Paddleboarding Coming to DuPage Forest Preserve June 1

Stand-up paddleboarding will be allowed on Silver Lake at Blackwell Forest Preserve on a trial basis from June 1 to Aug. 31.

At the request of fans of the activity, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has decided to launch a pilot program allowing paddleboards at Silver Lake this summer. Paddleboards must be under 20 feet long, and visitors must have valid private watercraft permits, which are $5 per
day or $30 per year for DuPage residents and $10 per day or $50 per year for nonresidents.

Paddleboarders must wear properly fitting, wearable Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices. If they fall in the water, they must get back on their paddleboard immediately. For more information, call Visitor Services at 630-933-7248.

“We’re thrilled to be able to provide a venue for this water sport that keeps growing in popularity and gives people another way to connect to nature,” said Anamari Dorgan, Forest Preserve District director of community services and education.

Standup paddleboarding is a combination of kayaking and surfing that provides a full-body workout with a fun way to get out on the water. Regardless of age or fitness level, paddleboarding works the core, improves cardio fitness and challenges balance and flexibility.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been connecting people to nature for more than 100 years. More than 4 million people visit its 60+ forest preserves, 145 miles of trails, six education centers and scores of programs each year. For information, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the District’s e-newsletter, blog, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.