Sagawau Environmental Learning Center’s visitor center and classroom include exhibits on geology, human and natural history and habitat management. Frequent educational programs and interpretive hikes teach visitors about our natural environment.

On this page:

• Location, Hours & Things to Do
• Trails
• Events
• Field Trips & Hybrid Learning
• Sagawau Canyon
• Cross-Country Ski Trails, Rentals & Lessons
• Volunteer Opportunities
• Rules

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Location, Hours & Things to Do

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Trails

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Events

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Field Trips & Hybrid Learning

Our hybrid learning and field trip offerings allow teachers, parents and youth leaders to use forest preserves and nature centers as an outdoor (or virtual) classroom. Our hybrid learning programs serve kindergarten through 12^th grade students and meet Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), while our field trips serve everyone from pre-K to adult learners.

Contact one of our nature centers or experience.nature@cookcountyil.gov for more information or to discuss programs tailored to your learning objectives.

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Sagawau Canyon Nature Preserve

Sagawau Canyon Nature Preserve supports rare and unique plant and animal habitat and features the only natural exposure of bedrock in Cook County.

Guided walks are scheduled spring through fall and managed by Sagawau Environmental Learning Center. Individual access is restricted to protect this unique and fragile site. Call 630-257-2045 for more information about guided walks.

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Cross-Country Ski Trails, Rentals & Lessons

In winter with adequate snow, Sagawau Environmental Learning Center becomes Sagawau Nordic—a premier full-service cross-country ski center that provides ski rentals, groomed trails, and beginner lessons from a PSIA Gold Medal Ski School.

From mid-December to early March, Sagawau Nordic is open seven days a week from 9 am to 4 pm, weather permitting. Call 630-257-2045 or visit Sagawau’s Facebook page for trail conditions.

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Ski Rentals

Rentals are available from 9 am to 2 pm. Equipment is for use at Sagawau only and must be returned by 3:45 pm.

Each rental package includes skis, bindings, boots and poles. Classic and skate skis available. All youth and adult sizes.

All skiers renting equipment must reserve a rental time online.

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Important information:

• Renters must reserve a time online to rent equipment. Reservations are available when there is skiable snow. Each week’s reservations are posted on Sunday at 8:30 am.  
• Payment is by credit or debit card only at the time of rental. Cash will not be accepted.
• To rent equipment you must be 18 years or older and supply a valid driver’s license or $100 deposit. Sagawau will store the driver’s license and return it once the ski equipment is returned.
• Complimentary lockers are available, with a key deposit requiring a valid driver’s license.

Ski Rental Rates

Package	Rate
Individual	$15/person
Senior	$10/person
Family	$40/family
Lesson / Rental Combo	$30/person

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Ski Lessons

Learn to ski with a PSIA-certified professional ski instructor! Lessons cover the basic skills of flatland skiing and getting up and down easy hills.

• Lessons will be held on Saturdays and Sundays, in January and February. Lessons start at 9 am.
• Lessons are by reservation only. Participants must reserve a time online. Reservations are available when there is skiable snow. Each week’s reservations are posted on Sunday at 8:30 am.
• Lessons cost $20/person and are for ages 12 and up. A parent or guardian must sign for children under 18 years old.
• Payment is by credit or debit card only at the time of rental. Cash will not be accepted.

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Skiers’ Responsibilities

• Be aware, ski with care. Use courtesy and common sense.
• Ski within your ability. Consider visibility, speed and terrain, especially on hills.
• Keep to designated trails.
• Obey all signs; ski trails are one-way.
• Respect Ski Lesson Zone when students are present.
• Left side of trails are groomed for skating, right side for classic skiing.
• Trail users ahead or downslope have the right of way. Announce your presence when passing.
• Keep a safe distance from other skiers.
• When stopped, please move off track.
• Please do not litter.
• Trail pass must be displayed.

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Volunteer Opportunities

Activities may include cutting brush, pulling weeds or collecting seeds, depending on the season. Learn about your local environment from dedicated staff while helping the Forest Preserves. Tools, gloves and training are provided.

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Nature Center Rules

• Pets are not permitted on Nature Center grounds, including the parking lots.
• Nature Centers are unable to accept injured, orphaned or abandoned wildlife.
• For your safety and for the protection of natural areas, please stay on marked trails. Trails are for hiking only.
• Bicycles are only allowed in Nature Center parking lots, or at provided bike racks.
• For the benefit of other visitors and wildlife, please maintain respectful noise levels at all times.
• Picnicking is not permitted on Nature Center grounds. An adjacent picnic grove can be opened for pre-registered groups on weekdays.
• Food or drink is not permitted in Nature Center buildings.
• With the exception of water or sports bottles, food and drink are not permitted on Nature Center trails. Please dispose of litter in proper receptacles.
• Collecting of any kind is prohibited, as is the use of metal detectors. The fine for picking wildflowers is $500.
• For the protection of animals and visitors alike, please do not feed the wildlife.
• Be mindful of closing times for trails, the Nature Center building and parking lot.
• Please report safety hazards or suspicious activities to the Nature Center staff.