Des Plaines River: Quick Facts

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Brandon Road Lock, Joliet, Illinois

Map of the Chicago area waterway system showing the flow of water from Lake Michigan through the Chicago River, which connects via the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal to the Des Plaines River, then to the Illinois River, and ultimately to the Mississippi River. The map highlights major waterways, channels, and the cities of Chicago and Joliet, with an inset showing the broader river system in Illinois and its connection to the Mississippi River.

Map highlighting the Des Plaines River in orange as it flows through northeastern Illinois and southeastern Wisconsin, with surrounding state boundaries labeled and a small inset globe showing the river's location in North America.

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