It’s that time of year again: Temperatures have dropped, the coats and scarves are out, and children all over town rejoice over that most loved (and loathed) form of precipitation – snow.
While some may prefer to stay at home, with the simple comforts of a warm couch and a Netflix account, the thrill-seekers out there will recognize snow as an opportunity for a fun day of sled riding.
This age-old pastime is a perfect way to spend time with family and friends while getting some physical activity and enjoying the spirit of the winter season.
RELATED: Safety tips for sledding, running in snow
The Tri-State area has a wealth of great options for those seeking a good downhill thrill when winter weather sets in. For your sledding pleasure, here's a list of some of the most popular sites for sledding fun in the Queen City.
Voice of America Park: 7850 VOA Park Drive, West Chester
Overlooking Butler County’s Voice of America Park, the magnificent 65-foot slope known as “Chill Hill” is one of Greater Cincinnati’s most popular sledding locations when the weather turns chilly. The man-made hill is one of the highest elevations in Southwest Ohio and offers a long, clean ride. For those wanting a slightly easier climb, the park offers several smaller sledding hills as well.
Mount Storm Park: 700 Lafayette Ave., Clifton
With a name like Mount Storm, one might think this 57-acre park’s inclines would be for thrill-seekers only. However, the designated sledding hill at Mount Storm is a gentle (and long!) ride. Don’t forget to check out all of the breathtaking vistas of the winter-bound city below while you’re there. It's also a great pick for a sled-riding date!
Devou Park: 790 Park Lane, Covington
The rolling landscape of Northern Kentucky’s beautiful Devou Park has been a sledding favorite for years. The designated hill near the concert bowl is an area favorite.
Ault Park: 3600 Observatory Ave., Mount Lookout
Another sledding hotspot (or cold spot?) in Greater Cincinnati is Ault Park in Mount Lookout. The park does not designate a single specific hill for sledding, but there are several fantastic options available depending on personal preference. With that said, the mild slope of the hill facing the pavilion might be the best bet for kids.
Stanbery Park: 2221 Oxford Ave., Mount Washington
Stanbery Park’s sledding hill is infamous and for good reason -- it’s regularly recommended as one of the best in the Tri-State. Moreover, its heavily wooded 125-acre landscape is gorgeous to behold under a thick blanket of snow.
French Park: 3012 Section Road, Amberley Village
The pastoral, 275-acre French Park in Amberley Village is home to several gnarly sledding hills. It's also a favorite park for dog lovers!
Rapid Run Park: 4450 Rapid Run Road, West Price Hill
If you’re near Price Hill, Rapid Run Park is the place to be for snow-bound fun. Its rolling hills are perfect for "rapid” descents.
Big Bone Lick State Park: 3380 Beaver Road, Union
Big Bone might be most well-known for its museum, campground and titular fossils, but it’s also worthy of recognition for some primo sledding hills. Its sprawling natural environment is the perfect place to catch a wintry ride, and it's also a popular destination for winter hiking expeditions.
Clough United Methodist Church: 2010 Wolfangel Road, Anderson Township
Although the hill near Clough United Methodist Church in Anderson Township is on private property, the church has a long tradition of permitting sled riders to enjoy it. This huge 300-plus-foot sledding area is a perfect spot for family fun.
