Setting out just below the Skokie Lagoons at the Dam, this run along the Chicago River leads almost 10 miles downstream to Whelan Pool/Caldwell Woods Forest Preserve. The river runs through multiple forest preserves and parks providing excellent natural scenery and wildlife viewing opportunity in the middle of a busy urban area north of Chicago. There are multiple other access points to the river along this stretch so setting out for a shorter trip is also very easy. There are a few small dams along the river that will require very short and easy portages. The gradient of this section of river is very minimal making the waters calm and easy to navigate for paddlers of all skill levels.