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

Dining, Shopping, and Things to Do in Elmhurst

Nightlife in Elmhurst

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