Elmwood Park

Wooded creek walk with CCC-era stonework

2.5 · Our score
Parking Shade Benches
Elmwood Park
Elmwood Park, photo 2
Elmwood Park, photo 3

About this park

Elmwood Park is a long, narrow 65-acre strip hemmed by hills, with Furnace Creek and a chain of small man-made waterfalls running its length. CCC stonework from the Depression era survives as a bridge and stairways, and short shaded woodland trails branch off the paved paths. The paving is uneven and not well maintained, so it suits a walk over a run.

Amenities

Parking Shade Benches

Elmwood Park reviews

What visitors consistently say
The highlights

The sound is the thing at Elmwood Park. The creek bounces off the hills on either side, and reviewers describe sitting beside it about as often as walking past it.

Best for

Senior dogs

Before you go

Wear sturdy shoes; the stone stairways and rough paving aren't built for speed. Follow the creek path for the waterfalls and the best of the shade.

Frequently asked

Is there an off-leash area?
No. This is an unfenced city park with paved paths and woodland trails, so dogs walk on leash.
Is the terrain hard going?
In places. Stone stairways from the CCC era climb the hillsides, and the paved paths are uneven and poorly maintained, which suits a steady walk more than a jog.
Can dogs get into the creek?
Furnace Creek runs the length of Elmwood Park with small waterfalls along it. A recent visit found debris caught on the largest fall with algae growing behind it, worth a look before letting a dog wade.
Is there shade?
Yes. Short trails branch off the paved paths into a wooded, shaded stretch, which is the coolest ground in the park on a hot afternoon.
Is there parking?
A small lot serves the park.

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