2 minute read

Sledding

Next Article
Cannabis Laws

Cannabis Laws

Making the most of winter means indulging in activities that help create indelible memories with our friends and family members. When snow flurries fly, residents are eager to soar down the slopes. Sledding is a classic tradition that people of all ages and skill levels can enjoy together with an inexpensive barrier to entry. Residential neighborhoods are filled with city parks, golf courses and other public places that offer excellent conditions for a delightful day descending hillsides. Here are some of the most popular spots in the Southwest.

BUCKLEY PARK

With enough snow, the small hillside at Buckley Park on Main Avenue turns into a makeshift sledding theme park. Small climbs make this hill one of the best for smaller children. Watch for rocks, man-made jumps and snowcovered benches at the end of a ride.

CHAPMAN HILL

Though no sledding is allowed in the ski area, Chapman Hill has a dedicated sledding area for those who bring their own sleds. The nature trails nearby forge an accessible path for an easy hike uphill to slide down the steeper sections in the snow.

PURGATORY RESORT

For a fast and furious slide, try the Snow Coaster at Purgatory Resort. The area features three tubing lanes, which provide different terrain for the rider to enjoy. Visitors must rent a tube from Purgatory’s fleet to use the tubing hill.

FIRECRACKER HILL

By late November, the snow conditions on Firecracker Sledding Hill on the south side of Telluride Town Park are pristine. The onelane hill is a great place for people of all ages to experience the thrill of sliding downhill on a sled or tube. Visitors can bring their own or rent one at the nearby Nordic Center.

KENDALL MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA

Sledding in Silverton is a popular pastime. At Kendall Mountain Recreation Area, sledding is free. There’s a gentle slope for beginners, and a tubing hill for more adventurous guests. Bring your own sled or tube, or rent one from the lodge.

RESERVOIR HILL

Our regional residents are known for taking personal days when the weather permits to enjoy snow activities around town. Sledding at Reservoir Hill, located off Park Street in Pagosa Springs, is a family favorite. The hill features a luge-style run with a berm at the end.

LOBO OVERLOOK

For an unforgettable slide from the Continental Divide, visit Lobo Overlook on Wolf Creek Pass. Park in the lot located on the north side of the highway to enjoy different types of terrain on the slope, perfect for snow lovers of all ages.

SKI HESPERUS TUBING HILL

This small ski area between Durango and Mancos also has a groomed tubing hill with three distinct runs ending at a snow bern near the highway. Tube rentals are by the hour.

VINEGAR HILL

For more than 100 years, the City of Ouray has blocked off Fifth and Sixth avenues to provide a place for the locals to enjoy sledding. Bring your own sled or tube to experience the thrill. The hill is usually open from midDecember to early March, weather permitting.

This article is from: