Waterfall Glenn Well, Lemont, IL

## Overview Waterfall Glen Well is a public drinking spring nestled within the expansive Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Lemont, Illinois. Managed by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, this well offers hikers a refreshing stop amid one of the most popular natural areas in the Chicago suburbs. The forest preserve itself encompasses roughly 2,500 acres surrounding Argonne National Laboratory and features a well-known 9.5-mile limestone trail loop, diverse habitats including prairies, woodlands, and wetlands, and — as the name suggests — a scenic waterfall. The well has historically been used as a drinking water source by trail users and visitors exploring the preserve. Reaching the well requires a bit of hiking, but the journey through the preserve's peaceful surroundings makes it well worth the effort. The trail system winds through rolling terrain with bluffs overlooking the Des Plaines River valley, offering a rewarding experience for nature lovers of all skill levels. **Note:** The preserve's name is officially spelled "Waterfall Glen" (one 'n'), named after Seymour "Bud" Waterfall, an early president of the DuPage County Forest Preserve District — not after the waterfall itself, which is a common misconception. ## Directions 1. From I-55, take the Lemont Road exit and head south on Lemont Road. 2. Turn east (left if coming from the north) onto Bluff Road, located just south of the I-55 interchange. 3. Follow Bluff Road into the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve. The nearest address is **760 Kearney Road, Lemont, IL 60439**. 4. Park at one of the trailhead parking areas along Bluff Road or Kearney Road. 5. From the parking area, follow the trail system into the preserve. The well is located at approximately **GPS: 41.689632, -87.990334** (N 41° 41.378′, W 087° 59.420′). Be prepared for a moderate hike to reach it — the trail is mostly crushed limestone and well-maintained. *Tip: Bring a GPS device or smartphone with the coordinates loaded, as the well is not always prominently signed along the trail.* ## What to Expect The well sits along one of the preserve's interior trails, surrounded by mature forest and the quiet natural beauty that makes Waterfall Glen a favorite among local hikers, runners, and cyclists. The water has been historically used as a drinking water source by preserve visitors, though water quality can vary and no guarantees of potability should be assumed. The preserve is open daily from **one hour after sunrise to one hour after sunset**. The 9.5-mile main loop trail is popular year-round, but the interior trails that lead to the well tend to be quieter, offering a more secluded experience. In spring and summer, wildflowers line the paths; in autumn, the hardwood canopy puts on a vivid display of fall color. The terrain around the well is gently rolling with some bluff areas. Wear sturdy footwear, especially after rain when trails can be muddy in spots. There are no fees to enter the preserve, and parking is available at multiple access points. For more information about the preserve, visit the DuPage County Forest Preserve District's website at [dupageforest.com](http://www.dupageforest.com/Conservation/ForestPreserves/Waterfall_Glen.html).