Where to Sled, Snowshoe and Ski in Chicago
Chicago winter is well known for the cold weather, wind, snow and extreme conditions. But, apart from all these bad things, you can have lot of fun in Chicago even during winter season. Yup, get into winter sports activities. Bundle up yourself in proper cloths and get ready to enjoy the winter.
Main winter sports activities in Chicago include sled, ski and snowshoe. If you are not sure where to sled, snowshoe or ski in Chicago then nothing to worry. I have come up with list of places to consider for sled, snowshoe and ski in Chicago. If you are traveling to Chicago during winter season then make sure to pack proper warm cloths.
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Winter Sports in Chicago
Sledding:
It is fun to go out in winter for sledding in Chicago. There are several sledding hill in Chicago where you and your family can have lot of winter sports fun in Chicago. Following is the list of few places to consider for Sledding in Chicago.
- Erie Park – 630 N. Kingsbury St.
- Oz Park – 2021 N. Burling St.
- Soldier Field – 425 East McFetridge Drive
- Humboldt Park – 1400 N. Sacramento Ave.
- Montrose Harbor – 601 W. Montrose Drive
- Horner Park – 2741 W. Montrose Ave.
- Caldwell Woods- 6200 W. Devon Ave
- Gomper’s Park- 4222 W. Foster Ave
- Warren Park – 6601 N. Western Ave
- Stearns Quarry – 2700 S. Halsted Ave
Cross Country Skiing
Cross Country skiing is one of the best winter sports in Chicago. It is not your usual downhill ski but person ski in countryside on flat ground with ski gears and pole.
To be honest, there are not any good place to enjoy Cross Country Ski in Chicago city. But usually every year there is a program scheduled for month of December by Chicago Park District. Every Saturday you can participate in free cross-country ski sport with free cross country ski rentals at Northerly Island. You must bring your ID. I would say it is good place to start learning ski.
- Deer Grove Forest Preserve – Barrington
Forest preserve between Lake-cook road and Route 14 in Barrington. There is a six mile trail circling the preserve. You will encounter natural creatures such as rabbit and deer while enjoying cross country skiing. - Moraine Hills State Park – Island Lake
This state park for cross country ski is located close to Wauconda off route 12. It features 10 miles trail with few hills for great skiing experience. I would say it is the best place to ski in the Chicago area. - You might also want to consider the Morton Arboretum in Highland Park and Sagawau in Lemont, IL.
QUICK TIPS:
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Chicago Outdoor Skating Ice Rink Parks
Chicago outdoor ice skating season starts from November through February. As being one of the most favorite winter sports, there are several outdoor parks offering ice skating rinks. You can bring your own skating gears or rent skates at the place at minimal rental charges. Following is the list of top 5 Chicago ice skating rinks.
Millennium Park
Chicago, IL
312-742-5222
$10 skate rental; admission free.
Midway Plaisance Park
1130 Midway Plaisance North
Chicago, IL
312-745-2470
$6 skate rental; admission free.
Food concessions are available.
Warren Park
6601 N. Western Avenue
Chicago, IL
773.761.8663
$6 skate rental; admission free.
No food concessions are available.
Daley Bicentennial Plaza
337 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL
$7 skate rental; admission free.
No food concessions are available.
McFetridge Sports Center Indoor Rink
3843 N. California Avenue
Chicago, IL
773-478-2609
Now, as you know list of places to go for sled, snowshoe or ski in Chicago area, make sure to dress up properly to keep yourself warm.
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