Discover Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
The Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien offers 2,492 acres of beautiful open space within the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. Waterfall Glen contains 740 native plant species which represents 75 percent of all the plants native to DuPage County. Because of this comprehensive variety in the preserve’s woodlands, prairies and savannas, over 300 species of mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles as well as 300 varieties of invertebrates use the forest preserve year-round or during their migration seasons.
Preserve activities include: fishing, hiking, a youth campground, an open model airplane field and an orienteering course which is navigating through the outdoors with a map and a compass. (All needed supplies can be reserved in advance by calling 630.933.7248.)
We love the trails. With 11 miles of paths spread out among 4 mapped trails, hikers, bicyclists, horseback riders and cross-country skiers can enjoy Waterfall Glen?s scenic areas. Waterfall Glen also has unmarked footpaths that are narrow, but offer a challenge with great rewards to those who embark on the unmapped adventure on foot. (These paths are not open to bicycles in an effort to protect Waterfall Glen?s sensitive natural areas.)
In addition to enjoying the shear beauty of being in nature, Waterfall Glen is known for its expansive Bluff Savanna, the largest continuous tract of woodlands in DuPage County. Black walnut trees ranging from 180- to 215-years-old and are some of the oldest in the county and can be found here.
The land has recorded history dating back prior to the mid-1600’s and has been part of the DuPage County Forest Preserve system for over 90 years.
WaterFall Glen
Darien, IL
630.933.7248
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How to Get To WaterFall Glen
The main entrance is on Northgate Road. From I-55, take Cass Avenue half a mile south to Northgate Road. Turn right on Northgate, and go 400 feet to the lot.