XC Skiing at Camp Sagawau

Camp Sagawau is the closest area for groomed XC Skiing in Chicago. It is located in Southwest Cook County approximately 30 miles and 40 minutes driving from Hyde Park.

As part of the Forest Preserve District of Cook County Camp S. contains a 12 acre Nature Preserve with the only exposed canyon in Cook County. The canyon is estimated to be 100,000 years old.

Cross Country Skiing at Camp Sagawau has been limited by the lack of decent snow in recent years. They have a couple of trails totalling about 6 KM, but the various loops can be taken in different ways as well as reversed for more variety.

The terrain is generally flat with one fun semi-steep downhill into a sharp corner.

Camp Sagawau is open from 9:30 AM until Sunset or 5 PM. It's usually best to call ahead for snow conditions. The XC season usually runs from late December to early March.

Trails are groomed for skate and tracks are set for classic when there is enough base. Otherwise the snow is left ungroomed. This can be somewhat annoying as the trails get kind of narrow in some places (for skating).

Cost and Location

Skiing is free, rentals are available for $10 and lessons can also be booked in advance for $10. The 'combo' offers a lesson and ski/boot/pole rental for $18. Drivers license or $100.00 deposit required for rental.

Park at the entrance and walk to the Main Office to check in. There is no trail or entrance fee.

The Main Office offers bathrooms, water, and a waxing area (nice!). No pets or liquor.

Location:

      Camp Sagawau
      12545 West 111th Street
      Lemont, IL 60439

100 yards east of Archer Ave., or four miles west of Swallow Cliff Toboggan Slides on Rt. 83 near Lemont, Illinois

      (630) 257-2045  

Directions from Hyde Park:

Take Lakeshore Drive north to I-55 exit. Take I-55 South (many miles) and exit on 83 South (Kingery Rd.). Head South to 111th St. (another 5-10 miles) Turn left and go a short distance to Camp entrance on the left.

Helpful Links

Forest Preserve Page for Camp Sagawau [1]

Chicagowildernessmag.org Winter 2000 Map and Profile of Camp Sagawau [2] Resources > Skiing > Camp Sagawau