Where is the North Shore Channel?

The North Shore Channel is located in northeastern Illinois, serving as a crucial component of the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS). It connects Lake Michigan, near Wilmette, to the North Branch of the Chicago River in Chicago.

Geographical Path of the North Shore Channel

This man-made waterway begins its journey in Wilmette, Illinois, very close to the iconic Baháʼí House of Worship, where it diverts water from Lake Michigan. From this starting point, it flows southward, eventually merging with the North Branch of the Chicago River within the city of Chicago itself.

Essentially, the North Shore Channel acts as a vital link, channeling water from Lake Michigan and contributing to the intricate network of waterways that flow through the Chicago metropolitan area.

Here's a summary of its key locations:

The channel plays a significant role in the region's water management and history, designed to reverse the flow of the Chicago River and improve sanitation.