Prairie State Wire

Fans of off-highway vehicles can now explore new trails at Sahara Woods State Recreation Area in Saline County, as announced by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). The trails will be open during a soft launch until January 27.

Sahara Woods is notable for being Illinois' first state-managed off-highway vehicle trail system, featuring 26 miles of two-way trails catering to the increasing demand for motorized recreation. IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie stated, "The staff at Sahara Woods have been working hard to open this long-awaited project and are ready to greet visitors." She added that after January 27, the trails would close for winter and reopen in May with a grand opening celebration.

Operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Monday. Permits are priced at $20 per day or $65 for a four-day pass. Riders must register online in advance and ensure their vehicles comply with the maximum width requirement of 64 inches as per the Illinois Motor Vehicle Code.

The development of these trails was partly funded by federal grants alongside IDNR capital funds. The area previously served as an active coal mine between 1936 and 1995 before being donated to IDNR in 1999. Since then, reclamation efforts have transformed it into a safe recreational space.

Sahara Woods State Recreation Area is situated five miles west of Harrisburg on Tipple Road in Carrier Mills. For more information, interested parties can contact the OHV trails office via phone or email.