🍽️ Activities & Features

Expert recommendations based on quality, value, and visitor feedback

Item Price
Disc Golf Course Permit
18-hole championship course; permit required. Daily and annual passes available.
 $7 daily / $45 annual
Shelter Rental
Reserve open-air or enclosed shelters for events and gatherings. Includes access to picnic tables and grills.
 Varies ($50–$300+)
Splash Park
Free-to-use water play area (seasonal, summer only).
 Free
Winter Sports Rentals
Ski and snowshoe rentals available at the shelter (seasonal, weather permitting).
 $10–$20
Athletic Fields & Courts
Soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and baseball diamonds. Open play and league reservations.
 Free / League fees vary
Playgrounds & Picnic Areas
Modern play equipment, shaded picnic tables, and grill stations. First-come, first-served when not reserved.
 Free
Cross-Country Skiing & Sledding Hill
Groomed ski trails and Madison’s largest public sledding hill. Trail pass required for skiing.
 $8 daily / $40 season

Elver Park is Madison’s largest community park, boasting 250 acres packed with activities for every season. In warmer months, the park’s 18-hole disc golf course is a regional favorite—challenging for seasoned players but approachable for beginners. Permits are required (daily and annual options), and the course is well-maintained with clear signage and benches throughout.

The splash park is a magnet for families during summer, featuring interactive water jets and shaded seating. Athletic enthusiasts will find well-kept soccer fields, tennis and basketball courts, and baseball diamonds. Playgrounds are modern and padded, and picnic areas (some reservable) include grills and shaded tables—ideal for birthday parties or casual gatherings.

Come winter, Elver transforms into a hub for sledding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The sled hill is one of the best in Dane County, and the park offers ski and snowshoe rentals at the main shelter. Trails are groomed regularly, though conditions can be weather-dependent. Permits are required for skiing, and the shelter provides a warm-up spot as well as year-round restrooms.

Special mention goes to the Elver Park Neighborhood Center, which hosts youth programs, seasonal events, and community gatherings. The park’s paved multi-use trails are accessible and popular for walking, running, and cycling. Dogs are welcome on-leash, and drinking fountains are located near the playgrounds and shelter.

  • Restrooms: Seasonal restrooms (mid-April to early October, 10am–8pm); year-round restrooms in the enclosed shelter.
  • Accessibility: Paved and accessible paths, playgrounds designed for inclusive play, accessible parking near main facilities.
  • Picnic Areas & Rentals: Multiple shelters (open-air and enclosed) available for reservation; grills and tables throughout.
  • Rules: No alcohol without permit; no overnight parking; dogs must be leashed; observe posted park hours (4am–10pm).
  • Permits & Reservations: Required for disc golf, ski trails, and shelter rentals. Book online or by phone; credit card accepted online/phone, cash also accepted in person.

Pro tip: Peak times are weekend afternoons and during major events—arrive early for the best picnic spots or hit the trails on weekday mornings for a quieter experience. Winter activities are weather-dependent, so check the city website for updates on trail grooming and sledding conditions.

✨ The Experience

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Natural Setting & Scenery
Elver Park’s rolling hills, mature oak groves, and open meadows provide a classic Wisconsin landscape right in the city. The central pond attracts waterfowl, and the park’s size means you can find both lively group spaces and quiet corners for relaxation or birdwatching. Wildflowers bloom in spring, and autumn brings vibrant foliage—making the park photogenic year-round.
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Trail Difficulty & Accessibility
Trails are mostly paved and gently graded, perfect for walking, jogging, strollers, and wheelchairs. A few natural-surface paths offer light hiking through wooded areas. Wayfinding is straightforward, and rest stops are frequent. The disc golf course and ski trails add variety for those seeking more challenge, but there’s something for every ability level.
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Facilities & Maintenance Quality
Facilities consistently earn high marks for cleanliness and upkeep. Shelters are modern, well-equipped, and spacious. Maintenance crews keep playgrounds, athletic fields, and restrooms in top shape, though visitor reports note occasional trash overflow on peak weekends. Winter grooming for ski trails and sledding hill is reliable, weather permitting.
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Crowd Levels & Peak Times
Elver Park is popular and can get crowded—especially summer weekends and during events. The splash park and sledding hill are magnets for families in their respective seasons. For a quieter visit, early mornings or weekday afternoons are best. The sheer size of the park means you can usually find your own space, even on busier days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for disc golf or cross-country skiing at Elver Park?
Yes, permits are required for both the disc golf course and groomed cross-country ski trails. You can purchase daily or annual passes online, by phone, or in person at the park shelter. Permit fees directly support course and trail maintenance.
Are there restrooms and are they accessible year-round?
Seasonal restrooms operate from mid-to-late April through early October (10am–8pm). The enclosed shelter offers year-round restrooms and is fully accessible, making it the best option during winter or off-peak hours.
Can I bring my dog or have a picnic at Elver Park?
Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed and under control at all times. Numerous picnic tables and grills are available—some can be reserved along with shelters. Clean up after your pet and dispose of waste in designated bins to help keep the park welcoming for all.

📖 About Elver Park

Elver Park is not just Madison’s largest community park—it’s a cornerstone of southwest Madison’s outdoor life. Opened in 1966 and continually expanded and improved, it now spans 250 acres of rolling terrain, woodland, and open fields. The park hosts citywide events, summer camps, and neighborhood gatherings, and its facilities are a testament to Madison’s commitment to accessible, inclusive recreation. From the innovative splash park and championship disc golf course to the Neighborhood Center’s youth programs, Elver Park reflects the city’s spirit of community, wellness, and year-round enjoyment. Its blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and robust programming sets a high bar for municipal parks across Wisconsin.