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This trail is a multi-use crushed limestone path around the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve.


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Map Key

9.7

Miles

15.6

KM

100%

Runnable

772' 235 m

High

603' 184 m

Low

259' 79 m

Up

259' 79 m

Down

1%

Avg Grade (1°)

6%

Max Grade (3°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Open year-round from one hour after sunrise to one hour after sunset.

Overview

A well kept crushed limestone trail that winds for almost 10 miles through the ~2,500 acres of Forest Preserve land that surrounds the Argonne National Laboratory.

Runner Notes

This trail is a well kept crushed limestone with few obstacles, making it great for running.

Description

Start at the Trailhead Parking lot and begin running counter-clockwise along the enjoyable rolling terrain.

Early on you'll pass the infrequently used Tear-Thumb Trail. A few more miles brings runners past a model airplane field and then a scenic overlook of the Des Plaines River. There's also a worthwhile side trip along the Rocky Glen Trail to see the waterfall constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's.

Maps are generally available at the trailheads, but the route is fairly straightforward and easy to travel. When you've reached the end of the loop simply head back to your car.

Flora & Fauna

Kettles, Moraines, Prairie, Oak Savannah restoration areas and small Pine groves.

Contacts

Shared By:

Ron Thomas

Trail Ratings

  3.8 from 33 votes

#756

Overall
  3.8 from 33 votes
5 Star
27%
4 Star
30%
3 Star
33%
2 Star
9%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#5

in Illinois

#756

Overall
18 Views Last Month
7,198 Since May 3, 2016
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

44%
6%
50%
0%
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0%

Photos

I wide prairie view when out in the open during a paved road crossing after lots of tree cover.
Aug 29, 2022 near Lemont, IL
An algae covered pond along the Waterfall Glen Main Trail.
Nov 8, 2016 near Darien, IL
A little trail-side display of color.
Nov 8, 2016 near Darien, IL

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
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Check-Ins

Mar 27, 2021
Ethan M
Apr 10, 2020
Steve Homner
6.2mi — 1h 10m
Aug 3, 2019
Phil Coover
Jul 28, 2019
Mak T
16.1mi — 3h 19m
May 27, 2018
Brian Nelson
10mi
May 26, 2018
Brian Nelson
Did not like the crushed limestone to run out and it was hard and Like running on the road. The scenery is very beautiful 10mi — 3h 00m
Dec 17, 2017
Eduardo Ocampo
5mi
Nov 30, 2017
Steve Homner
9.7mi
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