Guide to Tobogganing and Sledding in Edmonton
It's Crazy Carpet time! Grab your sleds and head to the hills for some classic, winter fun! Nothing is better than kicksledding or tobogganing through blankets of snow. There are several great hills to sled on in Edmonton all throughout the city. Feel the brisk wind nip at your cheeks as you race friends and family down the hill, then warm up with a hot chocolate from a nearby local coffee shop. The PERFECT winter experience!
Best Toboggan Hills in Edmonton
Before heading out for a day of sledding, do a quick check over on the City of Edmonton website for updates on tobogganing hill conditions.
Emily Murphy Park Hill
Located along the North Saskatchewan River near the perimeter of the University of Alberta, the steep run eventually evens out at the bottom, making for a smooth landing. The park is also equipped with firepits, bathrooms, and a playground.
(Note: With Hawrelak Park being closed, trails from Emily Murphy Park to Hawrelak Park may be detoured.)
Gallagher Park
Gallagher Park is located just beside the Muttart Conservatory. Not only is this hill massive, but it also comes complete with a stunning view of the downtown skyline. It requires a bit of a trek to get to the top of the hill, but it's well worth the effort!
Government House Park
From the north side of the North Saskatchewan River, Government House Park Hill gives a fantastic view of MacKinnon Ravine. This hill offers an exhilarating run perfect for thrill seekers. Plus, did you know that scenes from the movie Snow Day starring Chevy Chase were filmed here?
Queen Elizabeth Park
10380 Queen Elizabeth Park Road
Queen Elizabeth Park is a hot spot for Edmontonians. With a beautiful view of the city and the Walterdale Bridge and access to several river valley trails, Queen Elizabeth Park is a great spot for an afternoon of sledding. Make sure to explore the trails after and check out the nearby artwork at ᐄᓃᐤ (ÎNÎW) River Lot 11∞ Indigenous Art Park!
Rundle Park ACT Hill
This hill is located in picturesque Rundle Park, on the northeast side of the city. There’s a clearly marked area to the left of the hill where you can climb up - an important feature that reduces the risk of collisions! To make a full day of winter fun, bring skates as well so you can glide through the park's iceway!
Rundle Park Walton's Mountain
Also at Rundle Park, Walton's Mountain offers a steeper option for older kids or adults looking for the thrill of a big hill. We recommend starting out at Act Hill, then making your way to Walton's Mountain to finish off your day with a hit of adrenaline!
Whitemud Park North
This medium-sized run has stairs on the side that lead to the top, which helps you avoid the other sledders zipping down the hill. There's also a large washroom building at the bottom of the hill which can be used as a changeroom.
Tips for sledding safely
While tobogganing is one of our favourite winter pastimes, it does come with its risks. In efforts to keep everyone safe, there are best practices to follow so everyone has a fun and safe time. Please check that the path down the hill is clear before taking off, and make sure to walk up the hill outside of the edges of the sledding area. Do not dig holes or build ramps on the hills and always sit face-forward on your sled. Tobogganing is not recommended after dark, and dogs are not permitted at city hills. Helmets are also recommended. Slide at your own risk and remember to have fun!
A Winter Warm Up
What’s one of the best things about tobogganing? We think it might be warming up with a creamy hot chocolate or other comforting hot drink afterwards. Check out these cozy cafes, perfect for an après-sled pit stop:
- Square 1 Coffee
- Café Bicyclette
- Cafe Versailles
- La Bosco
- Iconoclast Coffee
- Woodrack Cafe
- Caffè Sole
- Cafe Bloom at the Muttart Conservatory
