I finally got around to running the 9.5 mile loop around Waterfall Glen this morning.   I had been meaning to go for quite a while but never seemed to have made it out there.  However, in need of some trail running, I went out there today.  Even at 7:00 in the morning, I didn’t find a parking space at the start of the trail (granted there were only a handful of spaces available).  I was, however, able to find parking on Northgate street next to the entrance.

As far as the trail itself, most of it was small, steady inclines and declines.  While 10 miles has become routine, these ups and downs added some challenge to someone used to running on a flat surface.  A majority trail is crushed limestone.  There are some scenic parts on the trail.  Railroads, streams, wooden bridges.  I wasn’t lucky enough to see any wildlife, but maybe I was too focused on completing the course.  The waterfall itself is not on the trail.  Around mile seven, there is about a 150 to 200 feet incline over about half a mile called Big Bertha.  From what I had read and heard, I was expecting it to be a grueling hill, but, while my breathing did get more labored after it, it didn’t seem significantly hard.   I would say the trail is about 50/50 shade and sun. The trail itself wasn’t very crowded and the people who were on the trail seemed friendly.

Overall, I enjoyed the run.  I am definitely planning on setting aside more time over the weekends to go back.  Tactically, I would recommend the following:

• Take 55 to Cass avenue and head south on Cass.  The start of the trial is about a quarter mile from the exit.
• If you go, go early, like 7:00 AM.  Around 9 o’clock, most of the street parking seemed scarce as well.
• The heat and direct sunlight is another reason to go early too.
• Take your own liquids.  I didn’t see any water fountains.
• I did see one port-o-potty around mile 6.  I’ve read there are other “pits” but I didn’t see any.

You can get more information about Waterfall Glen including a map here http://www.dupageforest.com/Conservation/Forest_Preserves/Waterfall_Glen.aspx