Ethan BrownOttawa’s array of tobogganing hills offers something for everyone, from the hidden gems where only the locals dare to sled to the bustling hills alive even at night. Because, let’s face it, winter’s way more fun when you’re speeding down a hill.
Now, pull on those snow pants, because we’re about to slide (quite literally) into the top not-to-miss tobogganing runs in Ottawa. Read on!
Carlington Park
– Media credit: zoomandla
Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/residents/recreation-and-parks/parks-and-green-space
Address: 1640 Laperriere Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Z 5A6, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-580-2595
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM
Carlington Park is an absolute gem for tobogganing enthusiasts. The hill here is long and steep enough for those craving a bit of speed, yet it has areas that are perfect for those a bit wary of zooming down too fast.
Although the main hill provides a thrilling ride for the older crowd, the gentler slopes towards the bottom are perfect for kids or beginners. Beyond that, the park is a winter haven, offering opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing.
| Pro tip: The parking lot at Carlington Park fills up quickly on weekends, so aim to arrive early. And hey, if you find yourself hungry after all the tobogganing excitement, cruise down to the nearby cafes and bakeries; they serve up some mean hot chocolate and snacks to warm you right up. |
Green’s Creek Sliding Hill
– Media credit: cfh571
Website: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/greens-creek
Address: Bearbrook Rd, Ottawa, ON K1B 1B8, Canada
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 11 PM
Green’s Creek Sliding Hill is the perfect blend of scenic beauty and heart-pounding slopes. The hills here vary in length and steepness, catering to all levels of bravery and experience.
For families, especially those with little snow bunnies, Green’s Creek also boasts a designated gentle slope for them. And let’s not forget the trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing that meander through the snow-laden trees.
| Pro tip: Remember to dress warmly in layers; the wind can pick up, making it feel colder, especially after the sun sets. As for parking, there’s ample space, but it’s wise to arrive early on peak days. |
Grasshopper Hill Park
– Media credit: amyboudreau77
Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/residents/recreation-and-parks/parks-and-green-space
Address: 1609 Kilborn Ave, Ottawa, ON, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-580-2595
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM
Grasshopper Hill Park might not make the headlines, but that’s exactly why it’s special. It offers a cosy, community feel that the bigger hills can’t match.
The slopes here are diverse, providing a thrilling ride for all ages and skills, and they’re rarely overcrowded. And when you’re not zooming down the hill, you can explore the serene beauty of winter with activities like snowshoeing or a simple snowball fight.
| Pro tip: Once you’re done sledding, there are a few quaint coffee shops nearby that offer the perfect spot to thaw out with a hot beverage and a tasty treat. |
Conroy Pit
– Media credit: noir.and.his.squad
Website: https://m.facebook.com/pages/Conroy-Pit/102523356479605
Address: Conroy Rd, Ottawa, ON K1T 3S4, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-239-5000
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Conroy Pit, known for its off-leash dog park, is also a tobogganing paradise. Its hill has different gradients, which means it’s as much fun for the toddlers with their mini-sleds as it is for the teens (or, let’s be real, adults) tearing down the hill on sleek toboggans.
Besides tobogganing, this spot is fantastic for winter walks and, of course, watching the joyous dogs play in the snow.
| Pro tip: There’s ample parking available, but given its popularity among dog owners, it’s wise to get there early on weekends. Also, the area around Conroy Pit boasts a variety of eateries, from cafes to hearty dinners. |
Loyola Park
Website: N/A
Address: 956 Loyola Ave, Gloucester, ON K1J 7W3, Canada
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM
Loyola boasts a long, sloping hill that’s perfect for the whole family. You can either go wild on a nearly 200-metre downhill thrill or glide a little slower on a gentle slope—it’s all there.
Besides, the arrangement ensures the little ones are safe while the older kids or adults can enjoy a greater adrenaline rush. And hey, when you’re done with the sled, you can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or build a snowman nearby.
| Pro tip: Parking is plentiful, so no worries about finding a spot for your car. There’s also a great little pizzeria nearby called Lorenzo’s, perfect for grabbing a post-sled slice. |
Somerton Park
Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/recreation-and-parks/facilities/parks-and-green-space
Address: Ottawa, ON, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-580-2400
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM
Somerton Park is awesome for tobogganing because it boasts a long, steady hill that’s perfect for those epic racing contests we all secretly love. Its gentle slope makes it ideal for youngsters, too, while still being super fun for the older crowd.
The best part here is that you get a splendid view of the Ottawa skyline from the top. Also, did I mention the park has beautiful walking trails? Yep!
| Pro tip: Parking is on the street, but usually isn’t too much of a problem. The park is open until 11pm most nights, so enjoy some late-night sledding under Ottawa’s winter starlight. |
Utman Park
– Media credit: vinniegutz
Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/residents/recreation-and-parks/parks-and-green-space
Address: 280 Mountshannon Dr, Nepean, ON, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-580-2400
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
If you’re all about that long run, then Utman Park is the spot for you. We’re talking a 300-metre slide, folks—super long, super thrilling.
It’s great for all ages and skills, so pack up the family and come on over. And don’t just pack the sleds; there’s also a skating rink for some twirling fun post-tobogganing!
| Pro tip: There’s a Tim Hortons right around the corner, so you can warm up with a coffee or hot chocolate afterwards. Also, good news: parking is on-site! |
Apollo Crater Park
– Media credit: mayorgaadventures
Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/residents/recreation-and-parks/parks-and-green-space
Address: 600 Apollo Way, Orléans, ON K4A 1V2, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-580-2595
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM
Apollo Crater Park is right out of a winter wonderland fairy tale. Its undulating surface makes it great for both tobogganing and snowboarding.
Also, the hill is big enough for adrenaline seekers without being too scary for the kids. Once you’re done whizzing down, you can explore the wooded areas around you—making snow angels, anyone?
| Pro tip: Try to go after a fresh snowfall; the conditions are usually perfect then. Parking might be a bit tricky as it’s a residential area, but you should be able to find a spot without too much trouble. |
Walter Baker Park
Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/recreation-and-parks/facilities/parks-and-green-space
Address: 100 Charlie Rogers Pl, Stittsville, ON K2V 1A2, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-580-2400
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 11 PM
Walter Baker Park has that perfect mix of thrill and chill—steep enough to get your heart rate up but not so wild that you’ll be sending out SOS signals. It’s like the Goldilocks zone of Toboggan Hills, making it fab for little tikes and the grown-up kids among us.
Plus, there’s this nice, cushy run-out at the bottom, so you’re not abruptly stopping (you know, safety first, thrills a very close second). Also, you’ve got this beautiful scenery, making the climb back up feel less like a workout and more like a stroll.
| Pro tip: If you find yourself in need of a warm-up (because, let’s face it, it’s Ottawa, and it’s freezing), there’s a Timmy’s not too far away. Perfect for grabbing a hot chocolate and a doughnut. |
Westboro Kiwanis Park
– Media credit: carol.e.martin
Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/residents/recreation-and-parks/parks-and-green-space
Address: 411 Dovercourt Ave, Ottawa, ON K2A 0S9, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-798-8950
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 5 AM to 11 PM
Westboro Kiwanis Park is where it’s at for a more urban sled experience. Its hill might not be the longest you’ve ever conquered, but it’s got a decent grade that’ll have you picking up speed enough.
What’s killer about this spot, though, is that after you’re done sledding, you’ve got the whole of Westboro to explore cafes and quirky shops. And since it’s adjacent to Dovercourt Park, the kids can also play at the playground after all that tobogganing .
| Pro tip: Parking can be a bit of a hunt around here, not gonna lie, since it’s a popular area. So try to park a bit away, explore the area, and maybe end your day with some sledding. |
Ski Hill Park
– Media credit: dhoinkx
Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/residents/recreation-and-parks/parks-and-green-space
Address: Gloucester, ON K1J 7W6, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-580-2400
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM
Ski Hill Park in Gloucester is kind of the dark horse of Ottawa tobogganing spots. Hear me out: It’s a retired ski hill, meaning you get this sweet, long descent that’s kind of unmatched.
The hill’s got a good steepness to it, just remember, it’s a bit of a climb back up, but worth it. Also, because it used to be a ski hill, it’s got that wide-open space, so there’s plenty of room for everyone (no need to worry about sledding traffic jams here).
| Pro tip: There’s not a whole lot in the immediate vicinity in terms of warming up with a hot drink, so pack a thermos with your favourite warm beverage. |
Craig Henry Park
– Media credit: rustymonkey8
Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/residents/recreation-and-parks/parks-and-green-space
Address: 133 Greenbank Rd, Nepean, ON K2H 6L3, Canada
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM
Nestled in a residential community from which it takes its name, Craig Henry Park is like a hidden gem for tobogganers. We’re not dealing with Everest here—it’s more of a friendly slope that’s long and wide enough for both speed-seekers and little kiddos.
You can also pull off those sledding goggles and check out the rest of the park. I mean, you’ve got other snow-hugging activities here like snowshoeing and a spot of cross-country skiing if you’re looking to mix up your cardio.
| Pro tip: If you’re craving a warm-up after, just a hop, skip, and jump away is Merivale Road, flaunting a smorgasbord of eateries that’ll satiate your post-tobogganing munchies. |
