Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve image

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

Tourist attraction Park Nature preserve

One of the Most Revieweds in DuPage County


Address

Lemont, IL 60439

Website

www.dupageforest.org

Contact

(630) 933-7248

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (3.5K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Sunday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Monday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Tuesday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Wednesday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Thursday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Friday: 7 AM to 7 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: waterfall (30) trail (28) walk (21) parking (19) trails (15) nice (14) beautiful (12) Beautiful (11) great (10) friendly (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 MEG 2 years ago on Google
    My absolute favorite place to go and the waterfall at the end is just pure enjoyment for all ages. I did see people swimming in the Creek water or waterfall water. I would never get in water like that it was really yucky. I love that the trail had a nice consistency of hills! By walking this trail it has caused me to regain muscle strength in my legs l, and helped with my balance. This place is just awesome! I also walk with my dog who loves this place just as much as I do. It’s really family oriented and my children enjoy it as well.
    13 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jagan G. 1 year ago on Google
    A small waterfall located in the middle of dense wood. The waterfall can be reached either from a parking lot located half a mile, or it’s a 3 mile walk from the main Waterfall Glenn parking lot. The trail is paved with rocks, easy to walk and stroller friendly. There is a lookout point right next to the waterfall. The trail is good for biking and running.
    11 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 federico c. 7 months ago on Google • 408 reviews
    Really a nice place for a walk . Took the trial to the waterfall ,about 3 miles ( 6 total) , did it with a lazy deer head chihuahua and during the walk we step into a real baby deer ( which she thought it was family 😂😂😂🐶🫎......really a nice walk. Place is really clean and people are really nice . Be careful lif you have kids ,you need to cross a few roads
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ajimon T. 2 years ago on Google
    I went there 2 weeks back. It was really cold and everything was frozen. But it was so beautiful. If you donot want to hike the entire trail, but just see the falls, park on the waterfall parking lot and go from there. I wouldnt call say it is a hike, but definitely a nice way to enjoy nature if you are in the Chicago area.
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sheetal R S. 2 years ago on Google
    This trail is a 9.5 mile long loop that circles Argonne national laboratory. Well marked with maps along the way and the trail is broad enough to accommodate walkers and cyclists. There are multiple parking lots available. There’s a tiny waterfall area that one can see while walking the loop. We saw many people get down near the water and have fun.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sarah P. 5 months ago on Google • 54 reviews
    Very nice forest preserve I have been here a few times. It’s very well taken care of and the waterfalls are a great sight. There are paved trails and unpaved trails with various difficulties, so there is a lot of variety for hikers and bikers of all abilities. The trails are wheelchair accessible and leashed dogs are allowed.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Neerja T. 3 months ago on Google • 442 reviews New
    A stark beauty but the four stars as the waterfall is small! A nice small walk from the parking lot! Near sunset time and absolutely desolate
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Samar 5 months ago on Google • 273 reviews
    Beautiful hiking trail with winding paths. There are several entrances with a lot of ground to cover. Parking is plentiful on the weekend. Secluded and calming. Some joggers and cyclists on the path
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Reuben R. 7 months ago on Google
    Nice 9 mile trail that goes by small ponds, streams, and the Glen Waterfalls. It loops around the Argon National Labs. It has parking and restrooms. The trail is also used by bikes. Trail is wide and well maintained.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ron S. 1 year ago on Google
    We had a fabulous time to the waterfall and back. It was around 12 miles hiking, long walking. It is hard surface with like white crushed stone. There were bathrooms at the beginning and the middle so normally a loop is about six miles. Because a bridge is out one must return. They allow bicycles and walkers.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 D. S. 1 year ago on Google
    It’s a lovely oasis of trails and nature, but it seems like terrible planning to close both the parking lot and the alternate way to get to the falls. Took the nephews there to cool off and see some nature, but chose to just see some nature and get some energy out. Probably hiked for a couple miles. The places of shade and rest were cool and appreciated. Crazy city folk walked and biked right past ripened black raspberries. *The officials REALLY need to go on a poison ivy eradication tour! Stay in the path and stop to observe some lovely wildflowers and fauna. We saw a beautiful snake (not venomous).
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrew G. 1 year ago on Google
    We love going to Waterfall Glen. Some days it does get pretty busy, but the place is huge so once you get parked and in on the trails, it’s not bad. The best thing for us about Waterfall Glen, is if we feel like bike riding, the parameter trail is great for an afternoon of riding. If we feel like hiking, then going into the center trails along the river is great. And if you want to just do an easy walk, then you can walk the main trail.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chang Y. 5 months ago on Google • 82 reviews
    It’s a wonderful place to feel the outdoor, but don’t have to drive far. The 10-mile round trail is one of my favorite. Now is fall 2023, leaves are turning enticing red. When I am running on the trail, I see a deer family is enjoying the fall colors s as well. The youngster is hesitant at first, and eventually jumps over the trail to follow the herd. It’s a good day being out in this forest reserve.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Danielle V. 5 months ago on Google • 64 reviews
    Waterfall Glen is a beautiful area for a long or short hike. It's bright and colorful in fall with the leaves changing. It's serene in the winter just after a snowfall. We don't go much in summer cause it's pretty busy.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Toni G. 7 months ago on Google • 152 reviews
    Beautiful short walk to the waterfall. From the parking lot go right on the trail and about 7 mins later after a couple turns (signs) you are there. Bring water shoes if you want to go in as its rocky.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Monica G. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful Glen waterfall. Amazing place for walk, meditate,run. All season is beautiful here. Thank you 🙏🏻
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mikee 10 months ago on Google
    This is a fun good trail to walk and explore! So many birds to listen too and animals to see! The trail is gravel with twist and turns. Parking is spread out so if you wanna be closer to the waterfall you can! Go out and walk or bike this trail! You won’t regret it
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 B R. 7 months ago on Google • 85 reviews
    A great place for hiking, biking and exploring. They also have a model plane field. About 10 miles in total for the loop. Mostly all gravel trails with multiple entrances. The waterfall is a highlight and you can sit along the creek.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Julio Cesar C. 2 years ago on Google
    Nice trail and long walk if you want to see some deer. In winter gets really cold but is a great experience.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dave J. 2 years ago on Google
    Oh my! Great experience it appeard there had been a Tornado or micro burst touchdown in 2 areas. It was interesting to see how nature can accomplish such beautiful tradgedy on herself. I had more fun here because of all the factual evidence I was gathering and discovering. I was trying to google the area today but instead was directed here. I have enclosed some pictures of my findings. I hope you enjoy our adventure I'm Dave... Shall we carry on
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carm A. 2 years ago on Google
    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.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ashley H. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful trail! It leads to a mini waterfall, connects to a few different trails, and also has parking. Kid and dog friendly, although dogs need to remain leashed for safety. Definitely recommend.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Abtaham F. 7 months ago on Google
    Look out for deer! Really enjoyed this place very good place to take some amazing pictures, only thing is that there is a lot of pets around I’m not sure if it’s a pet friendly zone but there was many dogs and some were without a leash so if your like my Sisters who doesn’t like dogs be aware of this and enjoy the water.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kimberly F. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful hiking trails. Waterfall was so relaxing to sit by. Remember your bug spray however.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Garrett “TattedNavyVet” R. 9 months ago on Google
    Nice park but no waterfall because of drought...
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Monika A. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful walking hike spot near Chicago! best time to visit I would say is Fall for all the foliage.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 RG 2. 1 year ago on Google
    Wonderful! Loved the trails which are very walkable. Lots of paths down by the river too. Great place for a respite from suburbia.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael N. 3 years ago on Google
    A super great trek through the wilderness! Enjoyed stretching my legs and enjoying the peace and quiet in a beautiful Forest Preserve. The snow didn't slow us down! The cross-country skiers were nice enough to remind us that we should try to walk down the middle of the path and not mess up their skiing tracks on opposite sides. Understandable! A nice, chilly, and cool stroll. Highly recommended!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Gina S. 2 years ago on Google
    Took the kids out for some family fun before the holiday! It was packed, but everyone enjoyed themselves! This is one of my favorite spots to snap pictures of the kids. Grew up around the trails with my family, love passing the memories down with the younger generation!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Angelo M. 1 year ago on Google
    First Time 🌲👣📷 Beautiful Forest Preserve! Still haven't finished the whole trail. Looking forward to it. Enjoy the photos!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Melanie H. 1 year ago on Google
    No matter the season, this little waterfall is a nice spot to visit. It's much quieter in winter. In summer, there are kids wading to cool off, which is enjoyable too. But if you're looking for photo ops, pick a colder day.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dheeraj L. 1 year ago on Google
    The place is a great trek... Waterfall itself wasn't flowing this season due to less rain but the entire park is an awesome experience. Would be a great place to see fall colors and spend quality time with family and friends.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tiana Daye B. 2 years ago on Google
    BEAUTIFUL. God sprinkled something extra here and it's now my favorite trail in the area. The loop is really well marked and maintained, and perfect for a long run. The Rocky Glen waterfall is cute and fun for a nice walk with a friend or for the kids to play in.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vishakha P. 6 months ago on Google • 63 reviews
    Beautiful waterfall within a short hike from parking. A big parking area is available and a lot of picnic tables around. There are many hikes with different lengths so you can pick what works for you.

  • 5/5 Aziz B. 1 year ago on Google
    An excellent place for a nice hike or a bike ride. Pretty waterfall and stream. You may be able to catch a glimpse of some jumping fish!

  • 5/5 OO 2 months ago on Google • 20 reviews New
    Waterfall currently frozen. Snowy trails are still walkable. Parking lot has gone through a major expansion. Bathrooms are closed but there are porta-pottys available before you enter the trail. They are usually always clean.

  • 5/5 Антонюк �. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place to walk, ride a bike and have a rest from the noise of the city. On weekends and during holidays it is a little bit crowded. But during workday's evenings it mostly empty and becomes a great place for romantic date.

  • 5/5 Shalini B. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is great for a short walk to a waterfall. Lots of greenery and the air is refreshing. Great for folks who don't want a strenuous hike but some light hiking or picnic spot.

  • 5/5 Hector I. R. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful! Nature at its best! The trail is very well kept and every 0.5 miles you find markings and directions. This is truly a gem! Family friendly, cardio friendly, bike friendly, and even HORSE friendly. Mind your trail etiquette and honestly you can enjoy a beautiful morning or evening day in this preserve. The "waterfall" is also truly beautiful. Nice history behind the waterfall. Perfect for summer time activity.

  • 5/5 Hanumantha R. 2 years ago on Google
    Ty how is a beautiful Forest Preserve - with 9 1/2 mile loop for walking, running, cycling etc. There is a little waterfall and a number of marshlands. This is a beautiful place to visit all year round.

  • 5/5 Owen R. 2 years ago on Google
    A nice place to hike or take your dog for a walk. The trail is safe, and the security patrol was there when I was there.

  • 5/5 Colin C. 7 months ago on Google
    Accessible nature trails a plenty-- don't forget bug spray-- this is real woods with water. Lovely.

  • 5/5 A B. 8 months ago on Google
    An absolutely delightful place to check out. The paths are well maintained and there are a lot of cool things to see, especially the waterfall.

  • 5/5 Ashley T. 8 months ago on Google
    Great rounded trail. Alot of traffic but everyone respectful too each other. Clean. No glass anywhere very well kept. Took my dogs and it was amazing.

  • 4/5 Jennifer W. 9 months ago on Google
    Plenty of parking. Be aware the first parking area you come across off 55 is 5 miles from the waterfall. Keep going past Argon lab entrance and you come to a larger parking area. It's a 10 minute walk to the waterfall. Stroller and bike friendly. Not really wheelchair friendly unless your upper body strength or your assistants leg strength can handle the uphill on the return. Beautiful place to just sit and listen to the birds and the reving motorcycles and traffic in the distance. Funny how such a beautiful place is surrounded by abundant urban life.

  • 5/5 Moe N. 10 months ago on Google
    Beautiful park and trails! Lots of parking and easy to get to.

  • 3/5 Neena O. 9 months ago on Google
    9.5 miles. O If your looking to walk the entire thing. Sadly, the waterfall was dried out so defeated the purpose of walking that long just to get to it. There's 3 parking areas, in which we parked on Cass Ave which made the hike longer.

  • 5/5 Carmen W. 9 months ago on Google
    There's several parking lots Warning, the bathroom stalls don't have doors, and no hand sanitizers stationaries so bring your own hand sanitizer. Lots of poison ivy, but it's all outside of the walking trails

  • 4/5 Ankita T. 9 months ago on Google
    It's beautiful woods for a day out. Map does take you to the far away parking lot. But we figured the way to the waterfall parking lot after a while. There wasn't much water in the fall as always. Still a nice place for picnic.


Call (630) 933-7248 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Activities
    • ✓️ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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