Sauganash Park Trail

The Sauganash Park Trail is a lovely and surprising place in northern Chicago. The area is surrounded by rows of residential homes and neighborhoods which hide this lovely path. Sauganash Park Trail begins on West Devon Avenue where it makes it way south for a little over a mile. This trail is also referred to as Valley Line Trail, since it connects to the Valley Line Trail along the southern and northern ends of the Sauganash Park Trail. It's called the Sauganash Park Trail thanks to the Sauganash Park which is located along the midpoint of the path. The trail itself is concrete, with about 5 feet of space along the mile it runs.

A parking area at the north end of the trail is found along the road, offering a gravel lot to park at. The Valley Line Trail travels north away from the Sauganash Park Trail, and hikers will need to cross the road to get to the Sauganash Park Trail. Once on it, you and Fido will be covered in shade, as thick trees line both sides of the trail, offering a unique and quiet area to explore. After a mile of walking under the thick shade with a cool breeze, the concrete trail opens up to a bridge that crosses over the busy Peterson Avenue. There is a small run-off trail that leads to under the viaduct, where hikers can view mosaic murals of the community and history of the area.

Shortly after crossing the bridge, hikers will come up to the 2-acre Sauganash Park, where they can find open space to run in, restrooms, water fountains, and additional parking. The trail continues south for another third of a mile, although this portion is much more open and with less shade. The trail ends at West Bryn Mawr Avenue, where there is no parking or other amenities, and you will have to turn around to get back to your car.

This short but scenic little hike offers plenty of shade and good amenities for you and Fido no matter what time of the day you decide to go.