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Print Friendly MapThe Ottawa Riverwalk runs directly beside the beautiful Fox River, just north of its confluence with the larger Illinois River. It's a tranquil walkway with river views along its entire length.
To the west, the trail begins at the historical downtown area with its several nice restaurants and other interesting locations. It continues northeast, passing athletic fields and going through Fox River Park, where there are playgrounds, a public boat launch, several favorite fishing spots, and a 9-hole disc golf course.
Approaching the northern trail end, one can catch views of Ottawa's famed Fox River Aqueduct, built in the 1840s to carry the I&M Canal traffic over the river below. The Ottawa Riverwalk goes on to end at its direct junction with the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail, which invites the local trail visitor to do a bit more exploring of this historic landmark.
Parking and trail access are available at these locations:
I have long enjoyed the beautiful Fox River, and been interested in the history of the small towns along the I&M Canal and the Illinois River. Visiting this new trail in Ottawa had me reminiscing a lot about this area and all my explorations of old. M'thinks I'll be coming back to this trail again soon.
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