The Pecatonica River does not offer any breathtaking scenery or thrilling rapids, but it does offer some of the most peaceful and remote paddling in all of Illinois. The river passes through wooded terrain and rural farmlands in northern Illinois that is home to abundant wildlife and birdlife. The flow of the river is very mild and although there are occasional downed trees, obstructions are usually not a serious threat making it a great option for beginner paddlers. Aside from the developed or designated take-out and put-in spots on this trip, the river banks can be muddy and a little steep making shoreline access a little tricky while on the river. This trip starts from the Sumner Park boat access area just below a small dam and ends at the Trask Bridge Forest Preserve boat landing. There is an alternate take-out spot at mile 5 in the Pecatonica River Forest Preserve for paddlers wanting to set out on a shorter trip.