Bring the Layers, it's Sledding Time!

Story by Meghan Simonie | Photos by Detroit Riverfront Conservatory

Winter has returned to Michigan and snow is coming down. The official word comes in that school has been cancelled for a snow day. The children are over-joyed, the adults cringe at the inevitable stir-crazy time ahead.

Instead of dread for adults on snow days, take advantage of many of Michigan’s awesome parks and sledding hills to turn the day around (and exhaust your kids)!

Oakland County

Civic Center Park – Madison Heights

This expansive hilltop is ready to fit large groups and ideal for group sledding parties. Whether you are older and want to enjoy the thrill of a quick trip down the hill or have young kids that want to sled but then enjoy snowy fun on the playset, this park has just what anyone needs for a fun winter day!

Village of Beverly Hills – Beverly Hills

With a variety of recreational options in this 34-acre park, the Village of Beverly Hills has both a sled hill and an ice-skating rink. The hiking trails allow for the perfect wintery walks and cross-country skiing.

Booth Park Sled Hill, Birmingham

The perfect hill for those with little kiddos, it is a great way to enjoy sledding without any worries of too much speed on a smaller-scale hill. The park also has an indoor ice arena with skate rentals for indoor ice time.

Kensington Metropark, Milford

Grab a sled or toboggan and head over to Kensington Metropark to experience advanced or beginner level sled hills. A padded tree area exists near a “bunny” hill and there is even a hill catered to beginner level snowboarders.

Snowy Ridge Sledding Hill, Commerce

A large and expansive hill that can accommodate any type of sledder allows for a smooth and exciting ride during the snowy months of winter.

Heritage Park Sled Hill, Farmington

Over acres and acres of trails and outdoor spaces available to enjoy in the beautiful winter months. Sledding hills exist for all ages and skill levels for a fun-filled snow day!

Bloomer Park Sled Hill, Rochester

Enjoy some gorgeous views while cross-country skiing at Bloomer & Yates Parks. Over 200 acres of land allows for fun snowy hiking and hills for sledding.

Wayne County

Hines Drive, Westland

With a variety of hill sizes, the sledding hills available throughout the parks along Hines Drive will accommodate any age or any skill-level sledder.

Willow Metropark, New Boston

As a year-round attraction, Willow Metropark offers many outdoor activities including, fishing, hiking, cross country skiing, luge, tubing, and sledding among many others. Having over 1,500-acres, the park caters to all levels of ages and interests.

Winter at Valade Park on the Detroit Riverfront

Detroit Riverfront – Milliken State Park and Robert C. Valade Park, Detroit

Located near Belle Isle, the Detroit Riverfront parks offer various outdoor attractions for people of all ages. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy sledding hills and cross-country skiing trails.

Vernier Hill, Grosse Pointe

Check out Vernier Hill’s Instagram if you want to see the perfect venue to enjoy a sledding day at any age. Teens, toddlers, adults, and animals have enjoyed fun times on the snow hills.

With so many local options this winter, there’s no excuse not to get out and try some of these amazing hills. Even if you don’t have a sled, check out some of the local park’s websites prior to leaving; many offer free sleds to rent at their hills!

Once you’ve enjoyed sledding and realize you’re toes are starting to go numb from the cold, warm up in one of the many restaurants nearby to enjoy great eats and awesome drinks!

*Worth the Mention: Washtenaw County

Rolling Hills County Park, Ypsilanti

This beautiful sprawling park doesn’t just have outstanding views but wonderful cross-country skilling trails and awesome sledding hills. But don’t worry about getting too cold, there is a nearby lodge with a fire blazing and ready to warm up any ice-cold winter hands or toes.

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