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Elmhurst Active Lifestyle Guide

 

Discover parks, trails, and fitness opportunities in Elmhurst's vibrant outdoor scene

Elmhurst offers an exceptional quality of life with its award-winning parks, scenic trails, and diverse fitness options. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature walk, an intense workout, or family-friendly recreation, our guide highlights the best ways to stay active in this beautiful community.

Crown Jewel: Wilder Park

Voted "Best Suburban Park" by Chicago Magazine, Wilder Park is the centerpiece of Elmhurst's park system. The 40-acre park surrounds the beautiful 1868 Wilder Mansion and offers:

  • Expansive flower gardens and the Wilder Park Conservatory
  • Tennis courts and soccer fields
  • Walking paths through mature trees
  • Elmhurst Art Museum and Public Library on-site
Explore Park Details →
 

Scenic Trails & Pathways

Illinois Prairie Path

As the first rail-to-trail conversion in the U.S., this historic 62-mile trail system runs right through central Elmhurst. Perfect for:

  • Running and cycling
  • Nature walks with prairie views
  • Connecting to neighboring towns

Access Points:

Spring Road, Eldridge Park, and downtown Elmhurst

 

Salt Creek Trail

This serene 7.5-mile trail follows Salt Creek through wooded areas and open spaces, offering:

  • Shaded paths perfect for summer walks
  • Wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Connections to multiple Elmhurst parks

Best Access:

Berens Park and Eldridge Park

 
 

Fitness & Recreation

 

Elmhurst Park District Fitness Centers

Two fully-equipped facilities (Courts Plus and Wagner Community Center) offering:

  • Pool and aquatic classes
  • Tennis and racquetball courts
  • Group fitness classes
View Facilities →
 

Local Studios

Specialty fitness options in Elmhurst:

  • CorePower Yoga: Heated yoga classes
  • Orangetheory Fitness: High-intensity interval training
  • Pure Barre: Ballet-inspired workouts
 

Outdoor Activities

Unique ways to stay active outdoors:

  • Berens Park: Sledding hill in winter, splash pad in summer
  • The Hub: Skate park for BMX, skateboards, and scooters
  • Disc Golf: Course at Eldridge Park

Year-Round Active Living

Summer

  • Outdoor yoga in Wilder Park
  • Twilight bike rides on the Prairie Path
  • Pool parties at York Commons

Winter

  • Ice skating at The Hub
  • Indoor tennis at Courts Plus
  • Winter walking clubs at the library

Annual Events

  • Memorial Day 5K Run
  • Bike Elmhurst community rides
  • Fall Festival fitness demos

Ready to Embrace Elmhurst's Active Lifestyle?

Get Local Recreation Tips

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