For some, winter means snow, ice, and cold. But for others, winter is a time to strap on snowshoes, power up the snowmobile, or hit the slopes for some action, adventure, and fun! If you’re one of the latter, we’ve got some good news for you; there’s tons of wintertime fun to be found around Naperville! Here are the top winter sports destinations around Naperville, IL.
Cross Country Ski Trails
A little-known secret about Naperville: We’ve got some great cross-country ski trails (that also make for decent snow shoeing, too). Here are some of the top local spots.
DuPage Forest Preserve
All the preserve’s forest trails are open during the wintertime, and in particular, the trails at McDowell Grove, Springbrook Prairie, and Green Valley are popular with skiers.
Arrowhead Golf Course
Don’t have your own skis? Head on over to this local resort to rent some equipment, check out the groomed trails, or even try a lesson if you’re new or need a refresher.
Herrick Lake Forest Preserve
Adjacent to Arrowhead, Herrick Lake Forest offers miles of trails groomed for cross country skiing.
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center
Part of the Cook County Forest Preserve, Sagawau transforms into a full-service cross-country ski center complete with lessons and rentals.
Skiing & Snowboarding Spots
Hit the slopes, feel the wind in your face, and head downhill at high speeds at one of these nearby ski resorts!
Four Lakes Ski and Snowboard Area
It’s no grand mountain, but it’s a perfect area for those just learning the ropes or those who want to try out some new skills. The resort offers rentals, lessons, and a terrain park.
This snowboard-only hill is operated by the Naperville Park District.
Ice Skating Destinations
Ice skating is a wintertime classic, and whether you want to practice your double-axel or your slapshot, or maybe just work on getting around the ice without falling, Naperville’s got some spots for you.
Naperville Park District Outdoor Rinks
Naperville Park District operates five outdoor skating rinks, open through Feb 15. These include: Centennial Park, Nike Sports Complex, Commissioners Park, Meadow Glens, and Gartner Park.
This year-round rink offers a variety of public skate sessions, as well as various skating and instructional programs.
Focused specifically on figure skating, Northern Ice offers a variety of programming and events.
Seven Bridges features one NHL ice rink, one Olympic rink, and an all-purpose turf field—plus a variety of programs and events.
Downers offers both hockey and skating programs, as well as synchronized skating and a skate shop.
Sledding Hills
Nothing says winter like a thrilling slide down a snow-covered hill! And Naperville’s got some great spots for all ages (and levels of daring).
Located along the Riverwalk in downtown Naperville, Rotary Hill is a local favorite, and the Naperville Park District has even been known to host a special event or two here.
Naperville Parks District Hills
Naperville Parks District also operates five additional sledding hills (all of which close at dusk): Arrowhead Park, Brook Crossing, Country Lakes Park, Gartner Park, and May Watts Park.
Save yourself the walk back uphill… take a horse-drawn sleigh ride instead! Two horses pull a sleigh through the park from 12 – 3pm on Sundays through February.
Ready to Come Have Some Fun in Naperville?
Are you looking for winter sports destinations near Naperville because you’re thinking of relocating to or buying a home in the area? I’m here to help! Contact me today to learn more about how I can ensure you find the perfect home in just the right location.