Sauk Trail Reservoir
Location
Sauk Trail Reservoir is located on 80th Avenue, south of Sauk Trail, in Frankfort. Street parking is available on 80th Avenue.
Hours
8 a.m.-Sunset
Trails
Sauk Trail Bike Path
Phone
815-727-8700
Spanning 245 acres, Sauk Trail Reservoir in Frankfort protects wetland habitat along a portion of Hickory Creek while serving as a regional stormwater management facility.
The site includes a dry reservoir and dam designed to hold water during flood events. This dual purpose supports both public safety and the surrounding ecosystem.
Exploring the preserve
Sauk Trail Reservoir features 0.93 mile of paved trail, ideal for biking, hiking, running, in-line skating, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Because the trail is constructed on a flood control structure, visitors are required to stay on the trail, and the preserve may be closed during times of flooding.
Flora and fauna
Sauk Trail Reservoir protects wetland habitat that supports a variety of plant and animal life.
Ongoing management — including prescribed burning — helps maintain and enhance these natural resources.
Preserve history
Sauk Trail Reservoir was acquired between 1976 and 1978 in partnership with the State Division of Waterways for the construction and operation of a stormwater management facility.
The preserve is part of the Hickory Creek preservation system, which protects nearly 1,800 acres.
Upcoming events
View all events
Yoga and Hike
Get your week off to a good start with yoga and a hike at Four Rivers.
Seated Yoga and Seasonal Sights
Enjoy an invigorating morning by taking time for yourself and discovering the wonders of the natural world.
Living History Encounter: Penning the Past
Try your hand at writing 1750-style with feathered quills and walnut ink at our latest Living History Encounter. Discover ink recipes and how to fletch a quill to take home.
Latest headlines
View all headlines
Family-owned woodland acquired for new Horse Creek Preserve
126-acre acquisition protects wildlife habitat and future trail opportunities in Custer Township.
Five fast facts about mighty muskrats
Get to know these semiaquatic mammals that are common across Illinois.
Spider season has arrived in a big way
Around this time, spiders seem to pop up everywhere, and so do their webs, including some impressive orb webs created by garden spiders.
Frequently asked questions
There are many opportunities to volunteer with us. Visit the volunteer information page for more information.
Electric-assist bicycles are allowed within the preserves as long as they meet certain requirements. The bikes must:
- Be low speed (an electric motor of less than 750 watts).
- Have a maximum speed of less than 20 miles per hour.
- Have functional pedals.
- Have a rider who is 16 years of age or older.
Per the District's General Use Ordinance, persons riding a bicycle must conform to federal and state bicycle laws.
Call 911 in an emergency. Non-emergency safety concerns should be directed to the Laraway Communications Center dispatch at 815-727-6191 (option 9) to have a Forest Preserve District officer dispatched. Non-emergency and past concerns can also be reported to the District's police department by calling 815-727-8700 or through the online form.
Visit the Frequently Asked Questions: Concealed Carry page for information about firearms in the District's forest preserves and visitor centers.