Sauk Trail Woods

Sauk Trail Woods is part of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, and Sauk Trail Woods–Central features accessible picnic shelters, making it a great spot for inclusive outdoor gatherings, family outings, and community events.

Enjoy a day outside at this historic preserve or explore the regional Thorn Creek trail system.

An ancient, well-worn path known as the Great Sauk Trail stretches 400 miles, crossing the southern edge of Cook County. This old American Indian thoroughfare now forms the southern boundary of Sauk Trail Woods Forest Preserve. Thorn Creek cuts through the middle of this preserve and forms Sauk Lake within its steep valley walls. The sweeping views and five miles of paved trails draw visitors to this 630-acre preserve.

The Thorn Creek trail system connects multiple forest preserves and offers over 20 miles of paved and stone trails. These trails wind past lakes and wetlands, and through woodlands abundant with birds and wildlife.