Here Are the 9 Best Places To Go Sled Riding In Cleveland This Winter
Cleveland is in the midst of its most tumultuous season, and locals are trying their best to fend off cabin fever. It’s cold and snowy outside, and the weather can be pretty unforgiving. And yet, all this snow can be truly magical if you get in touch with your inner child. Build a snowman, make a snow angel or two, and zip down snowy slopes. Don’t know where to start enjoying wintertime activities? You can start by sledding at these epic locations:
Rocky River is actually a superb place to go sledding! There are notable hills at Big Met, Little Met, and Mastick Woods Golf Course. Just be sure to bundle up, because this rolling landscape can feel a bit windy. If you do decide to pay Big Met Golf Course a visit, swing by Tee #11 to experience a gentler slope that's great for kids. Nearby fireplaces await the opportunity to defrost you and your companions.
For those who are unaware, Chapin Forest Reservation covers much of Gildersleeve Mountain. Don't feel dismayed, though, because the sledding hill near 10381 Hobart Road in Kirtland is actually rather tame. It's perfect for small children and, as it is open until 11 p.m., it might be the perfect way for grownups to unwind after work, as well.
3. State Road Sledding Hill - Hinckley Reservation
Welcome to one of the best sledding hills in the entirety of Northeast Ohio! This slope is one of the steepest and longest in the Metroparks, and boy does its incline provide some speed! The only downside is that this steep behemoth of a landmark can be a bit of a pain to climb back up. However, this area is lit up at night and offers an incredible way to unwind after work.
Located near 27600 Lake Road in Bay Village is an enchanting little park that overlooks the Cleveland skyline. You may have been to the park during the Bay Days Carnival, but it looks vastly different in the winter. After you go sledding, hit the exercise trail for some incredible views of Lake Erie or take advantage of the outdoor ice skating rink.
Located on Farnsleigh Road just east of Warrensville Center Road is a little cluster of sledding hills that is perfect for families with children of varying ages. A petite hill is perfect for younger children, and while you're at the park, consider bringing your ice skates (or some cash to rent a pair) to swing by the Ice Arena. You can find its public skating schedule here.
6. Headlands Beach Sledding Hill - Headlands Beach State Park
This Ohio State Park is beautiful in every season, as Mentor natives can tell you. When there is plenty of snow and just a bit of sunshine, this park is perfect for both sledding and cross-country skiing.
In Brooklyn, more experienced sled riders know exactly where to go for an unforgettable adventure. At the intersection of Memphis Avenue and Tiedeman Road is a parking lot that leads to one of the best hills in the Cleveland Metroparks. Bundle up and give yourself some extra time to walk part of the Lake to Lake Trail, because this reservation's wetlands are entrancingly beautiful in the winter.
Located off of Chagrin River Road is one of the most epic hills in the Metroparks. This is a popular hill with a notable incline, so always be aware of your surroundings and try to give other sledders a safe amount of space as you zip down this snowy hill.
Cleveland winters can feel cold and depressing, but not if you let your inner child out for a bit of wintertime fun. Don’t be afraid to get out of the house and let loose on these snowy slopes! You can find more information about several of these sledding hills on the Cleveland Metroparks website here.
Where is your favorite sledding hill in the Cleveland area? Share your suggestions in the comments below!
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is - she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
