Best Gurnee Park District Parks to Visit This Winter

GPD2021-Winter_Parks_Viking_Path

It might still technically be fall, but the forecast suggests that winter in Gurnee will be here before we know it! Brace yourselves for cooler temperatures, shorter days, and that lovely four letter word – SNOW! While some may not be fans of the winter season, we know of a few places that can make it a little more enjoyable, and help to keep you and your little ones active all season long.

Gurnee Park District has a total of 28 parks throughout Gurnee. Each of these parks are unique, and provide excellent opportunities to get out this winter and stay active. To help you plan ahead, here is a list of some our favorite parks to visit during the winter season and what they provide:

Betty Russel ParkBetty Russell Park is great for those of all ages. During the winter, once certain criteria is met (such as an average temperature of 20 degrees for five consecutive days), you can expect to find one of our three ice rinks at the park. The ice rinks remain open daily (sunrise – 8:00 pm) for as long as the weather allows. Play hockey or test out those new skates – hours of fun are yours for the taking! 

If you need to take a break, you can stop by the park's warming shelter to warm up before heading back outside.

Christine Thompson ParkChristine Thompson Park offers a large sled hill for those snow packed days. When the conditions are right, and the snow is deep enough, you can head on over to the hill and race your friends up and down. The sled hill is open daily from sunrise – 8:00 pm.

Viking Park – As with Betty Russell, Viking Park also offers an ice rink once the weather allows. The ice rink is located in front of the bandshell on Old Grand Avenue. You can also take a walk throughout the park on our paved walking path that is plowed regularly once snow hits.

Hunt Club Park – If you're looking to stay active this winter, Hunt Club Park offers a great trail system! The trail is made up of paved and unpaved areas. You can expect our Parks Team to be out once the snow hits to make sure the path is plowed/shoveled. Grab those hiking boots and take in the sights and sounds of the beautiful wooded scenery! 

Hunt Club Park also includes our third ice rink, located next to the Hunt Club Park Community Center. The same hours and criteria for making ice (listed above) apply.

Pembrook Woods – thinking about trying cross country skiing or maybe snowshoeing? Pembrook Woods is the perfect place to try these activities out! With a large trail system through wooded areas, you can certainly have a blast once the snow hits! Bring the camera, as this park boasts great views and nature sightings.

For ice rink and sled hill conditions, please call Gurnee Park District's Rainout Line at 847-268-2080 or check online at Rainout line!

Whatever your plans are for winter, make sure to try to get out and enjoy the feeling of a fresh snow, the rush of speeding down a hill on your sled, or the scrape of your skates against the ice. Winter is a great time to stay active, and what better way to do that than by visiting one of Gurnee Park District's 28 parks! Have fun!


 

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Friday, March 29 2024

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