By 1808Delaware
Snow days are the perfect excuse to head outside for some thrilling sledding adventures. With three picturesque sledding hills in Preservation Parks, you can turn a snowy afternoon into a memorable outing. Pair your downhill excitement with a warm cup of hot cocoa, and you’ve got a recipe for winter fun!
Where to Go Sledding in Preservation Parks
Blues Creek Park
Blues Creek Park offers gentle hills ideal for families with young children. The smooth, wide-open spaces make it a safe and scenic spot to enjoy sledding.
Gallant Woods Park
Gallant Woods Park features a variety of hills suited to all skill levels. The park’s natural beauty adds an extra layer of charm to your sledding experience.
Hickory Woods Park
Hickory Woods Park provides an exhilarating ride for more adventurous sledders. Its rolling terrain and spacious surroundings make it a local favorite.
Stay Safe on the Hills
To make the most of your sledding adventure, safety is key. Here are some tips to keep everyone protected while enjoying the slopes.
Choosing the Right Spot
- Opt for hills that are smooth and not too steep, with plenty of space at the bottom for a safe stop.
- Avoid hills near trees, roads, parking lots, or bodies of water.
- If sledding at night, ensure the area is well-lit.
Using Proper Equipment
- Use sleds designed specifically for winter activities, ideally with steering or brakes. Avoid makeshift sleds like trays or tubes.
- Helmets are a must, especially for kids, to prevent head injuries.
Sledding Techniques
- Always sled feet-first while seated or kneeling—never headfirst.
- Take turns to prevent collisions, with one person per sled unless an adult is accompanying a small child.
- Walk up the sides of the hill to keep the center clear for sledders.
Dressing for Success
- Wear warm, waterproof, layered clothing to stay dry and comfortable.
- Avoid long scarves that could get tangled in the sled.
- Cover fingers, toes, and ears to ward off frostbite, and consider doubling up on socks and gloves.
General Precautions
- Supervise children closely. Kids under five should ride with an adult, and those under 12 should be monitored.
- Check for hidden obstacles like rocks or branches under the snow.
- Steer clear of icy hills to avoid dangerous speeds and hard falls.
More Winter Fun Awaits
If you’re looking to mix up your snowy day adventures, consider these additional activities:
- Snow Tubing: Visit dedicated parks like Vertical Descent Tubing Park in Mansfield for a fast-paced tubing experience.
- Snowshoeing: Explore the snowy landscapes with snowshoes for a quieter, more scenic adventure.
- Snow Games: Build a snowman, create snow art, or play games like tic-tac-toe in the snow.
Make Every Snow Day a Sledding Day
With these tips and destinations in mind, your next snow day can be filled with excitement, laughter, and cherished memories. Whether you’re tackling the hills at Preservation Parks or enjoying other winter activities, don’t let the cold keep you indoors—embrace the season!
Image by Daren Mehl from Pixabay
