Well maintained. Not too crowded. Challenging enough on a bike for me. Beautiful and well maintained trails that are well marked. Love it. If you're out of shape this place can whip you back into shape if you let it. read more

Waterfall Glen is a beautiful display of nature. Trails offer a robust adventure. Two parking lots, one off of Cass Avenue and the other off of Lemont Road. read more

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Beautiful place, lots of walking trails. The waterfall was pretty. They have a public bathroom and a big parking lot. One suggestion is to mark waterfall trails from parking lot. read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

I can't believe I haven't reviewed this place. Every time I come here I love it! It's a beautiful loop that I bike with my partner. It was a hot day when we did it yesterday but despite the heat, we had a lovely time. There's plenty of shade scattered throughout the loop. Also, the views are spectacular!! Last time I was here I saw some deer. Not this time...but we saw plenty of picturesque views. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND! read more

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Beautiful hiking experience. The redone parking areas an excellent more on the level of a small state park. At this entrance, a 2-3 mile hike will let you see a few of the major sites including a creek & forest overlook, a waterfall, and a river overlook. The entire loop is ~9 miles with land types including forest, grassland, and some ponds & creeks. The deer and plentiful are beautiful. Come by in the morning or evening when it's not so busy, and you'll likely see many. read more

There's a 9.5 mile trail that's easy to hike that circles it - many high school cross country teams train here. If you park by the waterfall, easy walk from the parking lot to see it - just under a half-mile. Can see from several angles, both above and across - with small trails from each. There's even an overlook from the main trail. read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - View of Waterfall - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

ANY waterfall is 5 star to me. It's funny because the pics online make this place look like Niagara Falls part deux! Truthfully it's a tiny backyard manmade waterfall. It's still amazing though! And the trails are those "get back to the car or we'll be lost in the woods at night!" scary. Lots of trails, who knows how far and long so careful hiking this place you'll get lost almost for sure like all the Lemont area forest preserves! read more

My first time here My first time here I recently started hiking, and I love it. It's way too. Get some exercise some vitamin D to look and feel better to enjoy nature. This is definitely not a hidden gem. It was a lot of people out the day that I visited children all in the waterfall pet. So if you are gonna come, I would say, come As soon as the park opens up and enjoy your hike or your bike, I see a lot of people were biking the trail as well read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

The trail was very pretty, lots of wildflowers on the sides of the path. The waterfall itself isn't huge, but it's very nice, and there are plenty of places to sit and relax. I think to walk to the waterfall and back took about 3 hours? Maybe more. Lots of stopping to take pictures of the flowers, so that probably added a half hour. I would definitely be ready to wear good shoes because the trail itself hurts to walk on. It's paved so it's like walking on a hard road for hours. Overall, it was a nice trail. read more

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I had a peaceful sunset walk by the water, glen and falls. The entire forest reserve has 10 miles of trail but you can opt for a shorter hike to the falls if you park by the entrance from Bluff Rd, not the parking lot on Rt. 83. The trail is wide, saw some visitors with strollers. There is an off trail track that is close to the water. Beautiful bluff read more

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I went on a fall day when the leaves were just starting to turn. There were a lot of people at the waterfall location but if you head away from the falls, it's a very pleasant and quiet hike. The creek was shallow and we were able to walk around on the larger rocks without getting wet. Saw a snake and lots of read more

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I wish I would have known about this forest preserve waaaaay sooner - it is absolutely beautiful! Lots of pine trees and greenery everywhere. The waterfall is breathe taking. The trail is about 9 miles total, it's a great place for a run/walk. I didn't see any bikers so I'm not sure if that's allowed. I really liked this spot - a nice place to take a break from all the chaos and just be one with Mother Earth and nature. read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

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Waterfalls in the middle of the suburbs? I've seent it with my own eyes! I can't believe this place exists. Great place to hike and take in nature. Parking wasn't straight forward and I ended up walking a ways to see the falls, but I did come for a hike so it worked out well. There were lots of cars parked along the side of the road. .|\---/| | o_o | .\_^_/..2021 read more

Illinois has plenty of lovely parks, preserves and hiking areas and Waterfall Glen is definitely a spot to visit for a day outdoors. The full loop is over 9 miles but you can walk as little or as much as you like. It's a pretty leveled walking path with many areas shaded by a canopy of trees. My only gripe about the loop is there are a few sections that require you to cross busy streets and It would be nice if there was an underpass or pedestrian bridge. There may be better times a day to visit where this isn't much of an issue. The highlight of this trail is the Rocky Glen waterfall and mini trail along the creek. This is where you want to rest, have a picnic and watch birds soar above. read more

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I think your experience here could vary a lot depending on which parking lot you use and what kind of activity you are after. If you go to the Trailhead Parking Lot, which is where Google will send you if you just search "Waterfall Glen," you will wind up at a rather small/crowded parking lot, with the section of trail nearby most suited for bikes, since it's just sort of a wide path surrounded by trees, but exposed to the sun, and not much to see. Also, the toilet facilities there are nuts! They are just latrines, not flushable, but worst of all there are 4 tiny stalls in the women's restroom with no doors at all. Indeed, you could see whoever is sitting on the first toilet just by walking past the window outside. And no sinks. If you are looking to walk (not bike), want to see the waterfall, along with some more varied and shady landscape, well... you can always walk the whole 10 mile path, or else you can seek out the parking lot that is just south of the Cass Ave. and Bluff Rd. intersection. If you look at the park's map, I think they call it the Waterfall Parking Lot, but Google Maps doesn't currently distinguish it that way - there it's just called Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve Parking. It is the lot nearest the Waterfall Glen Youth Campground. It used to be a smaller lot, but now it is huge, and we found parking easily even on a busy Sunday. From here you can walk to the waterfall very quickly. The walk is shady, and runs along a ravine with a river/creek for a portion of it. Eventually you will come to the waterfall, which is man made, and not the most spectacular as waterfalls go (especially if it has been dry), but it is fun to walk over the rocks, or wade in the water if it is a particularly hot day. read more

Great spot to hike/walk in winter! The parking lot is a bit small, though, so prepare to walk in from the street if it's a busier time of day. When we went, the entirety of the main trail was iced over, so break out the grippy boots! We walked along the sides and got around fine. Beware knit gloves! Pup friendly and easy to stay socially distant. If you bring the kids or those with small bladders, there are bathrooms inside reserve by the circle drive / parking lot. There is signage at the trail head and along the way to guide you to the waterfall, but know that it isn't very far at all. I'd say easy for all to get to (unless you're unable to walk and in a chair of some sort). The waterfall itself is beautiful and worth the walk! I heard that in the summer you'll see people on and around it. I bet that's refreshing! We were able to park on the circle drive / parking lot and hope you get a good spot, too. read more

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The main trail is pretty standard and spacious enough to allow social distancing, and we found a few smaller trails off into the woods where we found snakes and frogs, so that was fun. We passed a few swampy areas and marshy bits. The hike from our parking spot to the actual waterfall was going to be 3 miles, or 6 round trip. We didn't see the falls today as we got tired and it started to rain. They looked pretty cool in the photos. The path is smooth and easy to navigate, but we did have to cross two major busy roads on the path, so be prepared for that. The parking is free. The lot is "reserved for DuPage County residents only". We found a spot on the side of the road. It was really, really heavily populated today with walkers and bikers. We were able to maintain social distancing and we brought our masks. Restrooms are closed due to COVID precautions, so be prepared. read more

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My daughter and I decided to bike the ten mile loop at Waterfall Glen. There are multiple parking lots with the main one by Argonne Labs. This parking lot starts you at mile marker zero so it's easy to do the ten mile loop. There's a small waterfall to see if there's been some rain as well as a scenic overlook area with benches. Although it's not a paved path, there are a lot of shaded parts which is nice to avoid the sometimes burdening sun. Some elevation but not too strenuous on a bike. Great for walking as well. read more

It's small but peaceful Park here for a less than a mile walk to the Fall .. definitely walk the river bank as soon as you can .. Waterfall Glen Waterfall Glen Fp Lemont, IL 60439 United States. read more

I love this place! It's not too far from downtown and so beautiful. It's pet friendly which is huge, I love being able to take my dog along the path and get him out of the city! It's basically a gravel wide trail so you can't get lost and far enough from the city to have some quiet but you're still close to a small airport and railroad area and they're doing construction. So not the most in depth nature experience as we didn't see any animals other than squirrels but still a nice getaway from the city. It's also free which is a great perk! They have a beautiful waterfall area and a few look out spots. It's a pretty easy trail overall the portion that we did, a majority flat and a few uphill portions. We did about 5 miles in 2ish hours and brought snacks and ate by a picnic look out! The only issue was parking, the lot was full so we luckily found a few spots outside of the lot on a gravel parking lot off the road. Oh the women's bathroom was actually horrendous so don't bother going in unless you're brave, or use the men's. read more

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I live about 5 minutes from the Lemont Rd entrance & I have been visiting this place since I was in high school (I'm 36 now) for long runs during cross-country season. I have always loved running here & over the years I've also cycled along the path. It's refreshing to be in nature & traverse through the open fields & the greenery. I've also seen lots of deer here & even a snake once! I love WFG. read more

We finally ventured out after 5 months of staying home during COVID19 .... reached at 6pm since most folks would be gone by then . It wasn't crowded but I was appalled to see not a single person wearing a mask . Not sure if it's a dupage county residents ignoring the rules in a public space. The weather was perfect for a nice stroll in the woods but not sure I want to come back here . read more

This spot is nice for a quick trip outside of the city. We did a hike here the first weekend of March. I expected the snow to have melted on the trail but it was not. The trail was still extremely snow packed..so please wear waterproof hiking shoes or boots. I did not and completely regretted my decision. We parked in the main trail parking lot around 2pm and there were a few spots open. From here to the waterfall was about 6 miles so we walked the other way. There was a bathroom at the start of the trail by the parking lot. No bathrooms on the trail. I'd definitely love to come back here when the snow is melted for a nice stroll. read more

We really enjoy this forest preserve! Our favorite part is that it's very pet friendly and the paths are wide so there's room for many big pups! I learned that this preserve is over 2,000 acres and is "one of the most ecologically impressive parcels of open space in the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, if not northern Illinois." That's pretty cool! There even is a waterfall here, the sawmill creek overlook, and plenty of trails. The waterfall is very small and underwhelming if you've traveled abroad, but still pretty to sit by and hangout near! We small some people having picnics and there's tables near by if you don't want to sit on the ground. What is nice about this forest preserve is that it's not just walking trails. It's popular for bikes, moderate hikes, horseback riding and even cross-country skiing- what!? I had not idea. In addition, you can fish and we even saw some people flying small model airplanes. Last, there's a campground! I think it's exclusive for youth groups but still fun. We came here last week because the weather was magically almost 60 in March and we've been craving spring. We were very dirty after our hike because it rained hard a couple days prior. Something to be mindful of if you plan on hiking on different trails. We always have towels in the car because we have a dog but recommend to have them either way after a long hike. Can't wait to come back! read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - My two favorites! - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

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This is a fantastic place to spend the day. Beautiful scenery for biking , hiking, and a picnic. My favorite part is the trails that lead to the waterfalls. When it's warm enough you can swim in the pond the waterfall flows into, it's only about 2 to 3 feet deep, so it's perfect for kids too And we found a branch to play Tarzan on our trail. You can see my kids swinging in the pictures read more

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Waterfall Glen is a 2,492 Acre Forest Preserve in Dupage County (Darien,IL) . The Forrest Preserve has an 11 mile trail with lots of beautiful scenery. In my opinion this place is definitely a hidden gem and I am glad my friend and I stumbled upon it. This Forrest preserve is beautiful and is surrounded by alot of beautiful greenery. It even has an amazing waterfall once you walk inside the preserve for about 4 miles, but its totally worth it once you find it. There are many scary creatures throughout, so be very careful and try to always go with someone. I saw several snakes, inside and outside of the water. In addition they had signs posted about Coyote's and a spider decided to take a ride on my shoulder for the day, I think I was ready to go after that. This is a great place for people who want to get out and enjoy nature and burn calories. There are usually a lot of people, dogs and children around so keep that in mind before you go and watch out for poop on the trail. You can thank me later. You can either park outside of the preserve alongside the street or inside the preserve, either way you will still have a lot of walking to do to get to the good stuff. They have markers throughout the trail to help you find your way. This is a great place to exercise, hangout, take pictures and bring your children but hold on tight to your children and pets! read more

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I am simply in love with this trail. I wasn't expecting anything great when I was researching about trails near by. I live in the suburbs and this is the best closest long trails I could find for the weekend. The trail itself is made up of limestone, more of a paved path. The route is shared with runner groups and bikers. Many small trails constitute to this big one. The overall length is around 9.5 miles from the start to end loop. But you could also choose your short paths based on the entrance you make it into the trail. There are several parking lots that connects the trail. also portable potty near each parking lot. There are mile markers places for every half and one mile and the whole route is clearly marked. Part of the path leads as if it's drawn into open fields, there's also enough shade amongst to the most part as it is covered with trees. It was a really beautiful and relaxing hike we did. Parking would be a problem if the lot is full at the beginning of the trail as you will have enough space on the sides of the road too. The waterfall isn't that big, if you are simply planning to visit the waterfall and not hike. It's more of a pond with maybe a feet over fall. It's a good spot to sit and relax and spend time with family. Kids would enjoy much more that adults. It's a good visit on a warm and sunny day. read more

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I've been coming here for 30 years to unwind so I wasn't pleased when they put the Dupage parking restrictions in the parking lots when covid hit I made the mistake of parking in a lot and since I'm not from Dupage got a ticket. Since I didn't pay it on time (steep 100$ ticket). They are telling me I have to go to court now and can't just pay the fine. I'm not happy at all since I have to take a day off work since they only have this court on Friday. Seems quite excessive and I'm pretty angry about not being able to unwind in an area I've been coming to for so long. This is so excessive for a national laboratory!! Really people? read more

Yes, I have been to Waterfall Glen many times. you get a 10 mile walk in there if you want or a nice short 3 mile walk or just a short walk to be peaceful around the woods my grandchildren used to love going there. read more

Gorgeous place. It is really big, so much too see and so many entrances. The waterfall was very pretty. Not too crowded either. Perfect for biking and hiking. Also saw some people fishing. Definately a must see. read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

Waterfall Glenn is a beautiful place to check out. It's definitely a place where it's more fun to bike around just because there's too much walking around. The Waterfall is the highlight of this place. There's also great vantage points like a cliff top. Walking besides the river. This place is popular in the summer and it can get really humid too so stay hydrated. Wear bug spray because the bugs will be hungry for you. Don't think about staying here past sunset. read more

It's a good nature spot to get a walk/run/bike. I like this place for it being not far from the city. Pets would enjoy it too :) read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

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What a beautiful forest preserve perfect for hiking on the smaller trails or going for a long walk on the main trail. It is a very dog friendly place, but the main road is spacious enough that if you cross paths with another dog you can move farther enough away. Visually speaking, it is very beautiful. You have enough shade from the tree to not be scorched in sunlight and it is pretty to look at. When you start out, it is pretty open off of the Cass entrance, but as you walk farther, the trees get more dense. There are smaller paths you can walk down to become one with nature. If you just want to walk CLOSE to nature, but not actually immerse yourself, that's ok too. You can walk on the main trail and be free of snakes and frogs except some movement you might see by the trail. Overall, you will enjoy your time here and it is a great escape from the outdoors close to home. read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

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Great hiking and biking for all ages. You can take the main trail or go off trail for those ready for a bigger challenge. They expanded the parking on bluff road but need to replace the bridge by the creek. read more

I really enjoyed this area! It has paved paths and also trails if you want to walk off the paved ones. I loved how it changes grades so you're not just walking on a flat area. We saw the waterfall which was cute. It was peaceful. We went in January and the water was still flowing. The sound was serene. Dogs are allowed and must be on a leash. read more

Fantastic walking experience! DuPage does a great job of maintaining their forest preserves

Beautiful place perfect for running or walking the dog riding your bike plenty of traffic and people around so you feel pretty safe in the summer. The trees really protect you from the sun so you're always in the shade. read more

Dog walkers beware! We love coming to Waterfall Glen for the change of scenery. But dog walkers beware! We gave our dog a bath tonight and found that she had a tick embedded in her fur. If your dog likes to roll in the grass like mine, consider leaving them at home. read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Dog walking at Waterfall Glen - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

This forest perserve is huge. There's several different places you can park with different experiences. If you want to see the waterfall, well don't, unless you have young children with you, young kids will love it! Otherwise, it's very underwhelming see my picture, that's it. The main trails are gravel and are very nicely maintained and scenic. The off roading trails are either dirt or grass and cut through the woods and follow the river. They are not maintained well. There's litter all over the place and most of the rocks and trees have been spray painted with tags. Even if they were well maintained they're not long or difficult. However, my point above holds, if you have young kids this is a perfect forest preserve for you to help them hone their hiking and outdoor skills. read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - The waterfall - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

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It was over 60 degrees the day after Christmas, so we wanted to go for a nice long walk somewhere that wouldn't be too insanely crowded. This worked out nicely. The main parking lot was full as many other people had the same idea we did, but the 9.5 mile loop trail is big enough for people to spread out. We parked in an overflow lot and others found street parking at various points along the loop. The trail is wide and made of finely crushed stone and nicely graded which would make it nice for biking or running as well as walking. There aren't big holes or tree roots to look out for. Since everything was thawing rapidly, the trail was wet, which wasn't a problem for us walkers, but every bike rider we saw had a white/gray splatter line up their backs. I'd recommend a fender or splash guard if you're biking here...or at least seat covers for the car...The scenery is nice with woods, marshes and ponds. I'd definitely be up for a return visit, perhaps with the bike or my running shoes. read more

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Darien, Illinois

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