The 313-acre Sugar Creek Preserve lies along the headwaters of the north branch of Sugar Creek. Acquisition began with the 1972 purchase of the 30-acre Zalar Woods, and preservation has continued since then.

Sugar Creek Preserve provides main access to the Wauponsee Glacial Trail. Named after an ancient glacial lake, this 22.25-mile trail follows abandoned rail lines from Joliet to Kankakee and is ideal for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and equestrian use. The trail north of Laraway Road is asphalt for 2.75 miles and is ideal for in-line skating. South of Laraway Road, the trail is wider to accommodate equestrian riders and is covered with limestone screenings.

Sugar Creek Preserve features extensive landscaping with plants native to the Midwest. The landscaping includes a pond that mimics a natural wetland, providing habitat for wildlife and filtering pollutants from the water before it flows into Sugar Creek.

The preserve is also home to the District's Sugar Creek Administration Center, where the public can reserve picnic shelters, obtain dog park permits, and pick up District maps and publications. The Administration Center itself is a model of "green architecture," and self-guided tours are available.

Photograph Courtesy of Glenn P. Knoblock