Coming Soon
THE GYM WAS DOWN THE HALL. THE TRAILS WERE ACROSS THE STREET. WE'RE BRINGING THAT BACK.
EDC Outdoors — Get outside. Stay connected.
Monthly outdoor adventures for veterans, military families, and community supporters — activities decided each month. Every event ends the same way — together.
EDC Outdoors — Urban Kayak on the Chicago River
The Program
Recreation Was Built Into the Culture. We're Bringing It Back.
On base, recreation wasn't something you had to plan. The gym was down the hall. The trails were across the street. The people were always there. When service ends, that access disappears overnight.
EDC Outdoors exists to bring it back. Monthly outdoor adventures in and around Chicago — activities decided each month based on season, weather, and what the community wants. No fees. No experience required. Just show up.
On the Water
On the Water
EDC Outdoors Highlights
What We Do
Activities are decided each month based on season, weather, and what the community is asking for. Past and planned activities include:
Kayaking
Paddle the Chicago River through the heart of downtown. No experience needed — just show up.
Group Bike Rides
Ride the lakefront, neighborhoods, and trails. Community rides for all levels.
Hiking & Trail Walks
Get out of the city. Day hikes, forest preserves, and trail exploration across Illinois.
Outdoor Rucks
Weighted ruck marches through the city and trails. Military fitness meets community bonding.
Fishing
Lake and river fishing trips. Catch and release, catch and cook — either way, good company.
Seasonal Adventures
Snowshoeing in winter, camping in summer, apple picking in fall. The calendar changes. The community doesn't.
Day Trips
Starved Rock, Indiana Dunes, Wisconsin trails. Full-day excursions beyond the city.
Why It Matters
Physical Health
Outdoor recreation reduces stress, improves cardiovascular health, and builds functional fitness outside of a gym.
Connection
Shared experience builds trust faster than anything else. You paddle together, you bond together.
Mental Wellness
Nature and movement are proven tools for managing anxiety, depression, and the isolation that follows transition.
Consistency
Monthly programming gives people something to look forward to. A reason to show up. A community to count on.
How It Works
Join the Ranks
Sign up for free. Get on the list. You'll be the first to know when events drop.
RSVP to Events
Monthly events are announced through The Ranks. RSVP to reserve your spot — most events are free or subsidized.
Show Up
Gear is provided when needed. No experience required. Just bring yourself.
Stay After
Every event ends with food and fellowship. The activity is the excuse. The people are the point.
THE ACTIVITY IS THE EXCUSE. THE PEOPLE ARE THE POINT.
EDC Outdoors is coming soon. Join The Ranks now to get notified when events are announced.