Sedge Meadow is a living laboratory designed to provide scientists the research opportunities to study the function of wetlands.

Formerly part of the Des Plaines River Wetlands Demonstration Project, these controlled, experimental wetlands were constructed where abandoned farm fields and gravel pits once stood.

The preserve has been restored to its natural state and is now thriving with prairies, meadows and fully functioning wetlands that provide flood control, wildlife habitat and improved water quality for the adjacent Des Plaines River.

Trails and Canoe Launch The preserve's main entrance offers 0.25 miles of gravel trails.

Please keep dogs leashed and on trails at all times, and pick up after them.

Learn about our off-leash Dog Parks (permit required).

A separate canoe launch entrance is located just east of the preserve's main entrance.

Fishing is available only at the canoe launch.

You can access the Des Plaines River Trail from either entrance.

During winter months when conditions allow, the preserve's main parking area is open extended hours for snowmobilers who can ride for 8 miles along the Des Plaines River Trail from Russell Road to just south of Sedge Meadow.

Snowmobile trails are open from 6:30 a.m.–11 p.m., Sunday–Thursday, and 6:30 a.m.–midnight, Fridays and Saturdays.