|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
         
 Reporter |
Summary: Waterfall Glen wraps around Argonne National Laboratory and is situated southwest of Chicago. The main trail is wide and flat, and loops all around the park for a total distance of around 9.5 miles. There are many side trails in the park that branch off of the main trail and offer different scenery and less traffic than the main trail. The branch I chose took me to St. Patrick's cemetary, which dates back to the mid-1800s (you must call ahead to get access to the cemetary). Families with children tend to hang around the paths closer to the trailhead, but they disappear once you hike out a bit. The area is suitable for hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and even just a mid-day stroll. Even on weekend days you can venture off of the main trail and find yourself on a secluded hike through a dense forest. And given the amount of different paths and trails in Waterfall Glen, you can hike here several times and have a different hike each time. Trailhead: From I-55, take Highway 83 (Kingery) South to Bluff Road. Turn right (West) onto Bluff Road. Go about 800 meters and turn left into the ranger station and follow the road to the trailhead and parking. You can also just stay on Bluff Road until it makes a sharp right-turn onto Cass Avenue. You can park on the southwest side of the intersection of Cass Avenue and Bluff Road. (Lat:41.7068 Lon:-87.95941) Trail Guides for Waterfall Glen: Hiking Illinois by Susan L. Post (Human Kinetics Pub) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: Forest Preserve District of DuPage County (630) 933-7200 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Sean Bullington Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by TRL on 8/11/2010 I have biked this trail twice in the past week. It is a great workout and an enjoyable ride thanks to the beautiful scenery you are surrounded by. The only negative comment I have is that the signage is sorely lacking. The first time I rode it, I was alone, but figured I'd just follow the signs. I had to ask for help several times because the trail was just not well marked at all. The second time I went with someone familiar with the path, and all was well. I have hiked and biked on many trails, and I feel this trail could be much better marked to make for an easier outing. 
Reviewed by Sydney on 1/9/2010 Great place to bike and hike. My favorite are the clusters of pines, offering a cool respite from a hot summer hike and smelling like Christmas all year long. Look for signs of pre-Argonne (I think the former Salt Creek nursery) hidden among the woods. The kids call the small lakes "Frog Lake" because of the bright green frogs. The buzzing of the model airplane club's landing strip adds to the summer entertainment. Winter is especially beautiful with snow capped pines. I love it there.
Reviewed by JD on 7/28/2009 Awesome trail.. Ran it a few times. Nice because the scenery changes alot and you can still get some nice distance.. about 9.5 to 10 miles. Someone was nice enough to leave out huge jugs of gatorade and cups along the trail too.. did get lost and had to consult the map once though. Cool place.
Reviewed by Susan on 7/1/2009 Of all the places I've hiked, this one is the best! Look for the white deer in the fall. If you can handle it, the 9.5 mile loop is worth the trip. The interpretive signage is interesting and the waterfall is definately worth a peak. Enjoy!
Reviewed by J.E. on 5/20/2009 I just loved it! I went there with my school and had the best time ever!! It was a fun and easy way to get exercise.
Reviewed by mt on 5/20/2009 it was a really good place to go, liked it a lot
Reviewed by clark on 8/19/2007 Actually the short trail shown is part of a ~10mile loop that continues west past Bluff Road, turning north along railroad tracks and then loops back east on the northern section of the forest preserve. A limestone trail surface and good signage guides you over the entire loop. Many joggers enjoy running the entire loop, and an annual competitive trail run is held in July. Also the Chicago Area Orienteering Club holds at least one meet here each year.
Reviewed by JohnR on 6/3/2006 Nice little hike down to the Des Plaines river on the southwest part of the preserve and walking along sawmill creek toward the waterfall can be interesting if you don't mind getting your feet alittle wet. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Illinois Hiking, Illinois Trails, Illinois Hikes, Cook County Hiking, Cook County Trails, Cook County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
