Tobogganing is a Canadian tradition, and with 75 approved toboggan hills, Ottawa has some of the best tobogganing in Canada. In no particular order, here are 10 of the best spots to sled in the capital of Canada, whether you’re a fledgling first-timer or a seasoned shredder.
1. Green’s Creek (Gloucester)
Green’s Creek tops best-of-sledding lists in Ottawa all the time. It’s a big, multi-level hill that’s wide, clear of obstructions and lit at night — AKA the perfect spot for fun. It’s also part of Canada’s Capital Greenbelt, so there are many hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails around, too. Park in lot P26.
2. Bruce Pit (Nepean)
Bruce Pit is another hotspot for tobogganing. It’s located in the Stony Swamp section of the Greenbelt, the largest ecologically diverse protected area in the Ottawa Valley, and a beautiful place to explore. The big toboggan hill is just off the parking lot, but since there’s only daytime tobogganing available, the lot fills up fast, especially on weekends.
3. Carlington Park (Carlington)
Carlington Park is one of the highest points in Ottawa and known for having the steepest, fastest runs in the city. It used to be a ski hill. Now, only the bravest sledders go there for their thrills. Best suited to adults and older kids, the hill is a wild ride, and the climb back up is a workout. It’s lit at night, and you can park at the J.A. Dulude Arena.
4. Loyola Park (Gloucester)
Loyola Park has a large, natural hill with multiple levels and both steep and gradual slopes that aren’t too scary but still fast enough to have fun. Sledders of all comfort levels will enjoy it. Parking is available on surrounding side streets.
5. Walter Baker Park (Kanata)
The Walter Baker Park toboggan hill is a large, man-made hill just 20 minutes from downtown Ottawa. The hill is lit at night, and parking is available at the Tony Graham Recreation Complex. While the slope itself is moderate, some say it’s the longest hill in the city. You’ll keep going and going and going and going and…
6. Craig Henry Park (Nepean)
Another west-end favourite, the hill at Craig Henry Park is a medium-sized, man-made hill with a gradual slope and long run-off. It’s a great size for younger kids and easy to climb, too. Note that the approved run is on the west side of the hill and not lit at night. Parking is provided.
7. Ski Hill Park (Gloucester)
Despite its name, Ski Hill Park isn’t a proper ski hill with lifts, but lots of people practise downhill skiing here, and the sledding is top-notch. It’s a large hill with nice turns and gradual slopes fit for families with kids of all ages. It’s unlit at night, however. Parking is available on site.
8. Conroy Pit (Hunt Club)
Surprise! Another hill in the Greenbelt! Conroy Pit is in Pine Grove Forest, a place as magical as it sounds. The toboggan hill is lit from 4 pm to 11 pm, perfect for an after-dinner adventure. Park in the P17 parking lot and follow the path into the forest. It’s a short hike for hours of fun.
9. Marcel Lalande Park (Cumberland)
Want a true beginner hill? Hit up Marcel Lalande Park, a favourite among families with toddlers and young kids. It’s small, man-made, and obstruction-free, but it’s not lit at night. Park at one of the schools nearby.
10. Westboro Kiwanis Park (Westboro)
Westboro Kiwanis Park has another easy hill for young kids. Park at the Dovercourt Recreation Centre, and when you’re done, venture north to Richmond Road for some après-sled hot chocolate at one of several coffee shops.
Play it safe
Tobogganing is one of the best ways to experience winter in Ottawa. To ensure you enjoy it to the fullest, don’t forget to brush up on the City of Ottawa’s safety recommendations. As well, check the weather first to avoid sledding in icy or hazardous conditions. Have fun!
