West Branch DuPage River
About
Spring-fed flows of 114 CFS average sustain 23 miles of designated water trail through suburban corridors, with optimal paddling between 60-170 CFS on gauge 05536000. The West Branch DuPage runs two main sections: Lions Park to McDowell Grove, and McDowell Grove downstream to Knoch Knolls. As a state-designated water trail, the river provides maintained access points and coordinated management for canoe and kayak traffic through developed watersheds where many comparable streams have been channelized or lost entirely.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.