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
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Trail Club: October at Sand Ridge Savanna Nature Preserve
Trail Club is back this fall. October's sessions will be at 8 a.m. Wednesdays at Sand Ridge Savanna.
Volunteer Morning: Sand Ridge Savanna Nature Preserve
Get some fresh air and exercise while helping to make a difference in your community by attending one or more of the Forest Preserve’s volunteer mornings.
Mocktober at Messenger Woods
Join us at Messenger Woods for a guided experience along our trails to trick-or-treat for some themed mocktails
Latest headlines
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Forest Preserve adds controlled burn alerts through Smart911
Residents can opt in to receive notifications when burns are planned nearby.
‘Absolute gem’: Rotary Club honored for role in Forest Preserve’s creation
Rotary Club's vision helped shape 100 years of preservation.
Rainy day gull shot wins September photo contest
Shorewood photographer captures moody moment at Whalon Lake Preserve.
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.