Kayaks join paddleboats at Naperville quarry

Naperville Park District, in partnership with Naperville Kayak, will offer kayak rentals beginning May 10 at the Paddleboat Quarry along the downtown Riverwalk, near Jackson Avenue and Eagle Street.

The one-person kayaks may be rented at the Riverwalk Eatery, just across from the quarry. Those younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who can sign a waiver on their behalf.

The fee for kayak rental is $14 for 30 minutes. The fee includes brief instruction, a kayak, paddle, personal flotation device and American Canoe Association-trained staff available to answer questions and offer guidance on technique and other kayak-related questions.

"We are excited to bring kayaking to the Paddleboat Quarry for the first time this year," Director of Recreation Brad Wilson said. "The calm waters of the quarry will provide a great environment for those who want to try kayaking for the first time."

Paddleboat fees are $8 for a 20-minute ride or $10 for 40 minutes. Children younger than 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

The 2014 kayaking and paddleboat season will launch with a special park district event Saturday, May 10, - Spring Fever Reliever. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., kayaks and paddleboats may be rented for half price as part of the multifaceted celebration of spring.

Kayaking and paddleboats will be available from 11 a.m. until one hour before dusk on all nonschool days, mid-May through September, weather permitting.

For more details about the Paddleboat Quarry and rentals, visit www.napervilleparks.org/facilitieslist/paddleboats.

The Riverwalk Eatery will open Saturday, May 3, with preseason hours through Memorial Day, May 26, on weekends only from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Following Memorial Day, the Eatery will be open daily from 11 a.m. until one hour before dusk through mid-August, then on weekends through September.

The Eatery is at 441 Aurora Ave. along the Riverwalk and may be accessed from the park district administration building parking lot, the Centennial Beach parking lot, or from the parking lot at the top of Rotary Hill.