Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve — Attraction in Darien

I think your experience here could vary a lot depending on which parking lot you use and what kind of activity you are after. If you go to this lot, which is where Google will send you if you just search "Waterfall Glen," you will wind up at a rather small/crowded parking lot, with the section of trail nearby (near the "Trailhead Lot") most suited for bikes, since it's just sort of a wide path surrounded by trees, but exposed to the sun, and not much to see.

Also, the toilet facilities there are nuts! They are just latrines, not flushable, but worst of all there are 4 tiny stalls in the women's restroom with no doors at all. Indeed, you could see whoever is sitting on the first toilet just by walking past the window outside. And no sinks.

If you are looking to walk (not bike), want to see the waterfall, along with some more varied and shady landscape, well... you can always walk the whole 10 mile path, or else you can seek out the parking lot that is just south of the Cass Ave. and Bluff Rd. intersection. If you look at the park's map, I think they call it the Waterfall Parking Lot, but Google Maps doesn't currently distinguish that way - here it's just called Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve Parking. It is the lot nearest the Waterfall Glen Youth Campground. It used to be a smaller lot, but now it is huge, and we found parking easily even on a busy Sunday.

From here you can walk to the waterfall very quickly. The walk is shady, and runs along a ravine with a river for a portion of it. Eventually you will come to the waterfall, which is man made, and not the most spectacular as waterfalls go (especially if it has been dry), but it is fun to walk over the rocks, or wade in the water if it is a...

This place was AWESOME! The whole trail is 9 miles long but if you park by the waterfall it's less than a mile walk. There's one steep hill at the start for people with bad knees but after that it's smooth sailing. The start of the trail is shaded then unshaded and then super shaded also the best part about this waterfall is you can swim in it and at the top there's a huge swimming hole that goes a good distance back. Lots of fish and Crawford to catch and fun for kids and adults alike. There's also a picnic area by the waterfall where you can set up snacks and enjoy all the families company that are out there playing and having a great time. I've been here twice and I will be back. One of the best preserves I've come across so far in this area and I've been to almost all of them. This area has 2 trash cans as well and it's very well maintained also a spot for you to park your bikes if you pedal down there as well. Would recommend water shoes if you plan to go in the water and walk in the shallow portion it's a bit slippery but it's...

Waterfall Glen is one of the best-kept secrets in the area, and the waterfall is the true star of the park! Tucked away in a serene spot offI-55, it’s the perfect place to relax, take photos, Picnic, or just listen to the soothing sound of the water. It's a breathtaking sight that makes the trip worthwhile on its own!

The park features a huge trail, over 9 miles long, that winds through woodlands, prairies, and scenic landscapes. Whether you're walking, biking, or running, the trail offers beautiful views and a peaceful escape from the city. It’s well-maintained and great for all fitness levels. It’s also great for wildlife spotting, with plenty of opportunities to see birds, deer, and other animals along the way.

The peacefulness of the area is unmatched, making it a great escape from the busy city life. With its well-marked trails, natural beauty, and serene atmosphere, Waterfall Glen is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy nature without trying to drive too far. Highly recommend for hikers, bikers, and nature...