Explore 7 Slopes of Pure Fun!
Flying down a snow-covered hill is a lot of fun, and you don't need to ski or snowboard to do so! If you want the thrill but lack the ski skills (and desire to learn), sledding and snow tubing are a great way to get a similar enjoyment out of the season. These activities can be particularly exciting for kids, making them a great family activity, but they're also awesome for anyone who wants to feel like a kid again! Let's look at some fantastic places to go sledding in Colorado this winter.
*Tip: Most of these spots, specifically for sledding, do not offer rentals. This is an important reminder to plan ahead and bring your own sleds!
Hidden Valley at Rocky Mountain National Park
There is more to do at RMNP than just hike! In the winter, you can go sledding and tubing at Hidden Valley (the only place you're permitted at the national park). Hidden Valley used to be a ski area from 1955 to 1991. Now, it's used for sledding and snow tubing, and there's even a warming hut open on the weekends.
Firecracker Hill in Telluride
Combine views like no other and community spirit by going on a sledding adventure at Firecracker Hill, located at the Telluride Town Park. This town is iconic but still manages to stay on the clearer side when it comes to crowds, probably because Denverites don't want to make the jaunt. If you are willing to drive out there, though, it's worth it. Of course, you won't be driving 6+ hours just to sled. You'll want to make a whole trip of it, but why would you protest that? T-Ride also has the best town park, in my opinion.
Ruby Hill Park in Denver
For those sticking around Denver, head to Ruby Hill Park. This spot is great for a family sledding outing, offering safe thrills for young kids that don't require a long drive. It's also a fun place for skiers and boarders to learn, practice, and play around with tricks. Check back here for when it's set to open. So load up all your gear and get ready to embrace the snow close to home!
Frisco Adventure Park
Head to Frisco for some incredible sledding and tubing at the adventure park. While tubing requires payment and reservation, sledding is completely free! The tubing area offers multiple lanes with varying steepness.
Sledding Hill Park in Littleton
Sledding Hill Park is an undeveloped park in the suburbs. The park mainly consists of a north-facing slope used for sledding in the winter. There are a handful of benches at the top of the hill, so you can sit down while the kids race down the hill.
Bear Creek Regional Park in Colorado Springs
This park offers 545 acres of land, meaning there's tons of space to sled and play around in the snow. There are also multiple playgrounds, a dog park*, and hiking trails, so it's the perfect spot for the family! Some sledding terrain may require more caution than others, so investigate before you start your downhill adventure.
*Note: Sledding at the dog park is not allowed. Avoid any temptation you may have, as you don't want to collide with a pup.
Mesa Creek Ski Area
This former ski area near Grand Junction has become a place for backcountry skiers and sledders! Mesa Creek Ski Area, also known as Old Mesa Ski Hill and Old Powderhorn, offers a range of sledding slopes, catering to everyone from beginners seeking gentle rides to thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline rush.
Please remember that sledding is an activity you engage in at your own risk. As always, be careful. With the disclaimer out of the way, it's time to dust off your sleds and head to one of these top sledding spots in Colorado this winter. Get ready to embrace our state's beautiful snowy fun fully. Whether you bring the kids or are a kid at heart, you will have a blast. And don't forget the hot cocoa after your thrilling adventures on the hills!
