Winter in Denver means getting outside and enjoying the fresh snowfall! On the morning after snow blankets the city, locals are typically eager to pull out their sleds, inflatable tubes and puffer jackets so they can hit the hills. Sledding is one of the simplest, yet most beloved, snow activities! Save on those expensive lift tickets and skip the long drive to your favorite ski resort and enjoy the amenities at your local neighborhood park instead!
The Mile High City is the perfect destination for winter play, boasting a combination of urban parks, nearby foothills and winter sunshine that keeps the chill at bay. Whether you’ll be introducing your toddler to sledding for the first time this winter or you’re excited to race your friends down a steeper hill for bragging rights, these are the best sledding spots and snow play areas in and around Denver!
Where to Go Sledding with the Family in Denver
There are a variety of different sleds out there, so whether you have a classic wooden one stored in the attic or you plan to grab a few new plastic saucers from the store this winter — these are the best Denver area parks to test them out at!
Ruby Hill Park
Where? 1200 West Florida Avenue
Ruby Hill Park is one of Denver’s most popular sledding destinations for snow lovers of all ages. There are multiple hills in the park, allowing eager sledders to spread out based on their comfort level. The large hill has multiple runs, allowing families to stake out some space without fear of getting run down by the sledder behind them. There are nearby park amenities, such as restrooms, as well as parking. Overall, this is a prime spot to spend a winter afternoon hitting the hills with your sled. Whether you have kiddos in tow who are comfortable on smaller, more mellow hills or older children and young adults who are somewhat of adrenaline junkies and want to go faster and steeper — Ruby Hill Park has it all! For many, countless memories have been made at this park during the winter months! Come on out and make your own. Don’t forget to bring some extra layers!
PRO Tip: Plan to arrive earlier in the day on the weekends or on a weekday afternoon to beat the crowds. Due to the park’s popularity, it can get crowded after a fresh snowfall!
Sledding Hill Park
Where? South Kipling Parkway & West Ken Caryl Avenue
In nearby Littleton, eager sledders of all ages will love Sledding Hill Park. This large native grass area is situated in an undeveloped park. The main feature of the park is the topography, which makes it a prime destination once snow has fallen. Most of the park is a north-facing slope, which has traditionally been used as a sledding hill during the winter. There are a few park benches located at the top of the hill. Other than that, the park offers very little in the way of additional amenities. There are no designated trails. Park rules and regulations can be found here. There is a prairie dog colony located on the eastern 10 acres of the park.
PRO Tip: Parking for sledding can be found at either Eagle Meadows Park or Sanctuary Park.
George M. Wallace Park
Where? 4505 South Yosemite Street
Denver’s Wallace Park is a known spot for sledding and a solid option after fresh snow has fallen. There are decent hills near the playground, making it a popular spot for area families to visit when conditions are just right during the winter. When sledding at Wallace Park, toboggans and plastic sleds work best when there’s at least a few inches of snow to cover plants, rocks and other small obstacles. The location near the Denver Tech Center makes this a convenient spot to bring the family. Due to the multi-use nature of the park, sledders should remain mindful of pedestrians and other visitors.
PRO Tip: When sledding with younger kiddos, helmets are recommended. Kids under the age of 14 should have adult supervision.
Washington Park
Where? South Downing Street & East Louisiana Avenue
Affectionally known as “Wash Park,” Washington Park boasts gentle hills, making it the perfect place to bring younger kiddos who are looking to sled for the first time. There can be a busy atmosphere in the park on snowy weekends, with residents eager to experience the weather and enjoy the park amenities. The gentle slopes in the park are especially popular, with many families excited for their toddlers to enjoy their time in the snow. Stay alert for any signs about where sledding is allowed and not allowed! There are no high speed sledding runs at Washington Park, making this a prime spot for young children and beginners seeking mellow hills and relaxed vibes. Due to the heavy foot traffic the park sees at times, it’s important to remain mindful of pedestrians while sledding.
PRO Tip: Washington Park is one of Denver’s busiest parks year-round and the winter is no exception. Plan to arrive early in the morning or on a weekday for the best chance at avoiding the larger crowds.
Robinson Park
Where? 200 Fairfax Street
Robinson Park is located in Denver’s Hilltop neighborhood and is widely regarded as a great spot to enjoy the snow! It’s a neighborhood sledding favorite, with a north-facing hill offering sloped terrain that catches the snow quite well and offers sledding of varying steepnesses. This is perfect for families with kids across a range of ages, allowing them to choose the run that works for them! The hills tend to flatten out into a wide grassy area, allowing sledders to slow down naturally and safely. Beyond sledding options, Robinson Park also has open areas for other forms of snow play. The park also has a playground, which typically draws families looking for a laid back atmosphere.
PRO Tip: The best time to go sledding at Robinson Park is after a fresh snowfall when the slopes are fully covered in snow and smooth. Keep an eye out for playground equipment, pedestrians and other obstacles when sledding!
Sloan’s Lake Park
Where? 1700 North Sheridan Boulevard
Sloan’s Lake is one of Denver’s most popular parks year round. The winter is no different, with wide open slopes boasting skyline views. After a fresh snowfall, head over to the park and enjoy casual sledding and snow play with outdoor goers of all ages and backgrounds. The slopes at Sloan’s Lake are often considered moderate, making them ideal for casual sledders and families with older children who are ready to move past the baby hills. This is one of the city’s best spots to safely sled, as you’re near amenities and city services. There are often an abundance of people in or near the park, giving visitors the chance to enjoy the community and perhaps make a new friend or two while playing in the snow!
PRO Tip: When sledding at Sloan’s Lake Park, stick to wide open slopes with clear runs. Keep an eye on changing conditions, especially near the water’s edge!
Where to Enjoy a Relaxed Day in the Snow in Denver
Snow play can take on a variety of forms, including snow tubing, building snowmen, snowball fights and even just working on the perfect snow angel form! However you like to play, there’s a place for you in Denver! Check out these local parks and snow play hot spots near the Mile High City!
Berkeley Lake Park
Where? 46th Avenue & North Sheridan Boulevard
Berkeley Lake Park is always a solid option after fresh snowfall, mainly due to its quieter nature. While it doesn’t attract the same number of crowds as other Denver area parks, this neighborhood park shouldn’t be slept on. The less crowded nature makes it perfect for younger kiddos to enjoy the gentle slopes and open areas for snow play. Families with little ones know the struggles of trying to avoid high-energy middle schoolers and rambunctious teens when it comes to snow play. At Berkeley Lake Park, you can enjoy your own little corner on a peaceful day!
PRO Tip: For families seeking a calmer alternative to the city’s most popular parks, Berkeley Lake Park should be at the top of the list! The laid back vibe can’t be beat.
City Park
Where? 2001 Colorado Boulevard
Home of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Denver Zoo, City Park is the perfect spot to practice your snowman building skills or to work on your snow angels. The park features flat, open areas that are ideal for families with younger children. You don’t have to worry about losing sight of the kiddos while they play! Visitors can also enjoy views of downtown and the mountains while they play in the snow. Despite the hills being on the modest side, the flat lawns are where the park really shines. Kids will be worn out after running around, building snow forts and crafting the perfect snowball. On clear winter days, City Park can’t be beat on views!
PRO Tip: Due to the wide open areas and snow-capped mountain views, City Park can get busy on weekends with both locals and visitors. Time your visit accordingly if you’re looking to avoid a crowd!
Cheesman Park
Where? 1900 East 11th Avenue
Cheesman Park is a great place for winter play! Situated near the botanic gardens, the park has limited options as far as sledding goes. The slopes just aren’t there. However, there’s plenty of space across the 80-acre urban park for snowball fights, snowman building and just running around in the snow. The wide open lawn areas are perfect for parents wanting to keep a watchful eye on their little ones, while even providing an opportunity for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on snowy paths when conditions allow. Depending on the type of winter fun you’re looking for, Cheesman Park may be just right for you!
PRO Tip: Considering Denver doesn’t have consistent snow cover, especially when compared to higher elevations in the mountains, parks can get crowded after snow has freshly fallen. Plan to arrive at the park as early as possible after the snow has fallen for the best opportunity to enjoy it!
Echo Mountain
Where? 19285 CO-103
If you’re up for a short drive, then consider taking the family out to Echo Mountain! This is the closest snow tubing hill to Denver, offering incredible views of the Continental Divide and a covered conveyor lift that will bring you to the top of the hill after every run. There are six lanes with quick tubes that will have guests sliding through the day. Whether you’re racing friends in solo chutes or you want to link up with the family, you can do it all at Echo Mountain! Reservations to Echo Mountain include access to a snow tube, one hour on the tubing hill and the conveyor lift system. Advance ticket prices range from $25 to $45. There are even night tubing opportunities throughout the season, which can be viewed here!
PRO Tip: Online advance purchase is required for a guaranteed visit. Tubing reservations often sell out. There is also a minimum height requirement of 36”.
Enjoy the Snow this Winter in Denver!
Denver offers no shortage of places for residents and visitors alike to embrace winter and enjoy outdoor activities after a fresh snowfall! Whether you’re excited to build snowmen with your little ones or race down a tubing hill at Echo Mountain, you can make the most out of the season with these local goldmines for fun in the snow. Bundle up, grab your sled and head out to make some unforgettable winter memories this season!