This is a short trail through a stand of old growth trees that were preserved by the Forest Service. The trees in this stand are in the range of 150 to 600 years old.  Due to the lower elevation of this trail it is usually snow free most of the year making it a good year round destination.  This is an unofficial trail that is not signed but the trail can be seen from the road.

The trail has a couple of choices, you can proceed straight on the trail from the parking area where you will see a Y in the trail.  The Sauk River Bar Trail will be on the left.  The North Old Growth Reserve trailhead is on the right.  Across the Sauk Prairie Road you will see the south Old Growth Reserve trailhead.  By taking the south trailhead across the road, you will walk about 1/2 mile through lush green forest and abundant wildflowers when in season.  The trail will cross the road and you will continue walking down a gravel road for a short distance when you will see the trail continue to the left through some boulders.  While walking keep an eye out for cedar trees with long scars.  These are called Culturally Modified Trees where the bark was peeled for basket weaving by local Native Americans many years ago.

The Sauk River Bar Trail is just a short way trail of about 1/4 mile.  This is a great place for a short walk or stop to have lunch. The trail ends at extensive gravel bars and the Sauk River with views of Whitehorse Mountain and Prairie Mountain.  Several years ago there was a massive log jam on this side of the river.  The power of the mighty Sauk River washed the jam away and resulted in the river flowing on the opposite side.

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