Description
The Waterfall Glen Trail through the forest preserve of the same name makes a loop around the entire park. The preserve is geologically significant, featuring glacier-carved rock ridges, ravines and wetland potholes, which are not found anywhere else in the county. The 700-acre forest is a contiguous wooded acreage interspersed with dolomite beneath a prairie habitat, home to rare plants.
As you explore the Waterfall Glen trail (limestone surface), you'll discover the woodlands with dominant oak and maple trees, as well as prairie and grassland habitats and planted pine groves. You're likely to see lots of wildlife here, too.
The multi-use trail system accommodates cyclists, equestrians and hikers, and some trails are groomed in winter for skiing. Cyclists please stick to the designated bike trails. Horseback riding is not allowed in developed recreational areas, such as the youth group campground.
Parking and Trail Access
Horseback riders can park their trailers in designated spots at the trailhead on Northgate Road; trailer parking is not allowed at the Lemont Road lot.
There are three main parking areas for Waterfall Glen. On the north side, take I-55 to the Cass Avenue Exit and head south. Turn right on Northgate Road then right again into the parking area (there are 2 parking areas; the second right is a larger lot).
To access the southeast end of the trail continue south on Cass Avenue from I-55 and bear left at the elbow bend onto Bluff Road; the parking area is a short distance up the road on the right.
To access parking on the southwest side, follow Lemont Road to where it crosses 101st Street; the parking turnoff is on the east of Lemont where 101st comes in.
Nice quick ride
By
chriscuits
in
September, 2012
This trail isn't too adventurous distance-wise, but it definitely has its share of ups and downs to give you a workout. On top of that, the scenery is just beautiful, a great place to escape the suburbs for a bit. The trail is generally well-maintained, ...
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Great riding and scenery
By
slowman52
in
August, 2012
My wife and I recently moved to Palos Park and took up biking again. We have explored several trails in Palos, and Willow Springs, and we enjoy a good 8-10 mile morning ride. Waterfall Glen is the best we've ridden so far. Mixed group of friendly walkers, ...
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By
chubbycheeks
in
August, 2012
This evening my husband & I rode this trail for the first time. We are both over 65 yrs old. We probably will not ride this trail again. Although there were other cyclists on it, the trail is more suited for walkers and runners. There is almost no flat ...
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