10/25/2026
The Calumet River is a major waterway in northeastern Illinois and northwestern Indiana, flowing through the Chicago metropolitan region before reaching the Illinois Waterway system and Lake Michigan through its connected channels. The river has two main branches, the Little Calumet River and the Grand Calumet River, which have played an important role in the region’s industrial development, transportation, and shipping. The river system connects with canals and waterways that support commercial navigation and provide drainage for surrounding communities.
The Calumet River region has a long industrial history, particularly in steel production, manufacturing, and port operations around Chicago and northwest Indiana. Although industrial activity has significantly affected water quality and surrounding habitats, cleanup and restoration projects have helped improve parts of the river system. Today, the Calumet waterways remain important for shipping, urban drainage, wildlife habitat, and environmental restoration, reflecting the close relationship between industry, transportation, and nature in the Great Lakes region.