As a reader of the Elm Grove Odyssey, you probably live in or near Elm Grove. In Elm Grove and the Elm Grove area there are many parks of many different sizes and geographical features. Whether you are a runner, swimmer, biker, soccer player, or any type of athlete or nature lover the parks in my top five list have amenities for all types of people to enjoy. I chose these parks because of their sizes, trails, water access, and other features. Not all of these parks are in Elm Grove, but they are all relatively close by.

1. Grant Park

Grant Park is a favorite because of its hiking trails and lake views and access. Grant park is a great place for taking pictures in the woods or by the water. There are bridges, stairs, and canopies throughout the woods. Grant Park also hosts several cross country meets during the fall because of its abundance of trails. For golfers and tennis players, there is a golf course and a tennis court in the park.

2. Minooka

Minooka park is again a favorite because of its great trails. Minooka is large and hilly and the trails provide great views all year long. Some of the trail are even designed for mountain biking or horseback riding. There are also abundant picnic areas and a pond for swimming in. Lastly Minooka has great dog parks. The dog parks are fenced in and they separate little dogs from big dogs.

3. Nashota

Nashota is just a beautiful park. This park is mostly distinguished for its trails and nature views(including two small lakes). There are some open areas for playing soccer or other sports but mostly the draw is for the wooded trails.

4. Menomonee Park

This park is a favorite for many reasons. There is a campground, picnic areas, miles of trails, and the Lannon Quarry. My personal favorite part is the quarry because of its beauty, great fishing, and swimming areas. I love to go running through the trails and then hop into the quarry to cool off.

5. Hoyt Park

The great park of Hoyt park is its size. In fact, as you go along Hoyt Park it eventually becomes Hart Park. So between Hoyt Park and Hart Park there is a pool, a track, bridges, trails, and park buildings. Basically this park has something for everyone.