Waterfall Glen

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve – with its glacier-formed ridges, ravines and potholes -- may be the most astonishing parcel of open space in DuPage County, if not northern Illinois. The preserve is exceptional, because it contains features not found anywhere else in the county: The largest contiguous woodland block – over 700 acres -- and a dolomite prairie, with rock very close to the surface and shallow soil, home to rare plants for the region.

Waterfall Glen’s many habitats -- prairies, savannas, oak-maple woodlands and planted pine groves – and distinctive features make it a haven for a wide variety of plants and animals. Surveys by District ecologists have recorded more than 600 native plant species at the preserve, which includes 75 per cent of all the plants known to grow naturally in DuPage County. In addition, countless fish, amphibian, reptilian, and mammalian species can be found in the preserve, as well as more than 160 avian species, some year-round and some migrating.

Education

Outdoor Education Camp

This camp provides an opportunity for youth, Scout and school groups to discover diverse natural areas during daytime environmental education experiences. The District provides training to leaders using the camp. The program is best suited for groups of children who are 10 to 15 years old. Call the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center at (630) 850-8110 for more information.

Orienteering

This challenging activity involves navigating through the outdoors with just a map and a compass. A permanently marked course is located in the northeast section of Waterfall Glen near the trailhead. Groups can borrow maps, compasses and activity sheets by calling the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center at (630) 850-8110.

Programs

The Forest Preserve District of Dupage County offers various nature, conservation, and leisure-activity programs at preserves throughout the district, including Waterfall Glen.

Recreation

Youth Group Camping

Overnight camping opportunities for youth groups are available. A shelter with a large grill, latrines and drinking water are provided. Youth groups are defined as recognized, nonprofit organizations. Only members of these groups, with their accompanying leaders, may camp in these areas. Camping permits and adult supervision of one leader over 21 years of age for every 10 children are mandatory for campsite use. For permit and other information, call Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248.

Biking

Cyclists are invited to use any of the preserve’s eight-foot-wide multipurpose trails, although they are asked to stay toward the outside of the trails as a courtesy to other visitors. To prevent damage to sensitive natural areas, cycling on trails less than eight feet wide is prohibited.

Fishing

Several old quarries scattered throughout the preserve offer still fishing waters. All persons 16 and older (except legally disabled persons) are required to have in their possession a valid Illinois sport fishing license. All anglers must follow District and state regulations.

Horseback Riding

In addition to the main trail loop, Waterfall Glen offers trails suitable for horseback riding throughout the preserve. Visitors with trailers should park in the designated parking bays at the trailhead on Northgate Road.

Model Aircraft Area

A large open field in the southwest section of the preserve is a popular spot for local model aircraft enthusiasts. For more information on access to this area or use by qualified model aircraft clubs, contact Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248.

Picnicking

Visitors are welcome to spread a blanket and enjoy a picnic in the mowed grass areas at Waterfall Glen. Ground fires are not permitted, except in the fire ring at the trailhead area.

Trails

Waterfall Glen's four marked trails range from 0.2 miles to 9.5 miles in length and meander through some of the preserve's most scenic areas. The main trail is an eight-foot-wide crushed-limestone multipurpose trail. In addition, there are many unmarked mowed-grass trails and footpaths that dissect the preserve. Feel free to hike and explore these smaller, less-conspicuous paths, but remember that they often are not linked to the main trail nor are they shown on the preserve map.

 

Accessibility: The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to making its facilities accessible to all visitors. For special accessibility needs or concerns, please contact the District's ADA coordinator at (630) 933-7683 or TTY (800) 526-0857 at least three business days in advance of your visit.