Hidden Gems: Free Sledding Hills in Colorado

Hidden Gems: Free Sledding Hills in Colorado

Sledding is the perfect easy winter activity for people of all ages. Dotted throughout Colorado are a plethora of small and large sledding hills. Almost any hill can be a sledding hill if  there’s enough snow and it’s steep enough. 

Sledding is the perfect easy winter activity for people of all ages. Dotted throughout Colorado are a plethora of small and large sledding hills. Almost any hill can be a sledding hill if  there’s enough snow and it’s steep enough. 

How to Prepare 

Sledding is an exciting and free activity that is enjoyable for the whole family. Like any outdoor winter activity it is very important to dress warm. Layers are imperative! Starting with a non- cotton base layer, top with snow pants, heavy wool socks and waterproof snow boots. On top add a sweater or multiple warm layers as well as a snow coat. Don’t forget gloves and a hat. Dress warm and have fun!

Different Types of Sleds 

There are many different types of sleds. The first is a toboggan which is a wooden sled. A classic design and durable material mean you can use it year after year. The second type of sled is a plastic toboggan. They come in multiple sizes and shapes. These are the most common type of sleds on the market today. Though not the most durable they are the least expensive option. There are also sledges (another word for sled) which are traditional wooden sleds generally pulled by animals. We recommend a plastic sled but a foam one would work or even a trash bag!

Where To Go

There are tons of sledding hills throughout Colorado. As long as it is public land, you are free to sled! Some easy places that are almost guaranteed to have a steep enough hill would be parks, schools and playgrounds. For folks in Northern Colorado we have two great sledding hill recommendations. In Fort Collins, head to the old Hughes Stadium area. Though the stadium is gone, the hill still remains and makes an entertaining afternoon. Rocky Mountain National Park is a magical place full of wonder and hidden gems, like the former ski hill turned sledding hill located just off Trail Ridge Road. Way up in the mountains just past Loveland Pass at the Continental Divide is a small but mighty sledding hill perfect for skiers and snowboarders who want a quick and fun change of pace. This is avalanche territory so know where you are going before you start sledding. Heading to Southern Colorado in the stunning city of Telluride is Firecracker Hill, a steep and fast hill perfect for a thrill seeker. Steamboat Springs is a charming town that boasts gorgeous hot springs and lots of sledding hills. Near Silver Spur you’ll find a hill meant for the family to have fun. In Downtown Denver lies the first free terrain park in the US located in Ruby Hill Park. For Boulderites head to Scott Carpenter Park where there are tons of different hills of varying speeds and lengths. 


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