As the first flakes of snow begin to blanket Seattle, a chorus of excitement erupts from our kids, echoing the perennial question, “When are we going sledding?” At just four years old, they’re already seasoned winter enthusiasts, their memories vivid with last year’s snowy escapades. It’s hard not to share in their enthusiasm. Despite the herculean effort it takes to organize a sledding trip – the lengthy packing lists, precise timing, and the inevitable emergency potty stops – the joy it brings is immeasurable. Seattle and its surroundings offer a plethora of options for winter fun, whether you bring your own sled or prefer to tube down a well-groomed hill. Here are some of the best places around Seattle where families can enjoy these winter activities, creating joyous memories with their little ones.
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Where to go, where to go?
During Seattle’s signature, once-a-year snowfall, local playgrounds transform into winter wonderlands. Soundview Playground in NW Seattle has been our family’s go-to for convenient and exhilarating sledding. The gentle slopes are perfect for younger children, while the open space allows for plenty of room to play.
When you’re ready to venture beyond the neighborhood, the Seattle area offers some fantastic destinations for tubing and sledding. Here are a few favorites:
1. Snoqualmie Tubing Center |Â Snoqualmie Pass, WA
The Summit at Snoqualmie, located a mere hour’s drive from Seattle, stands as a beacon of winter fun, particularly for families looking to indulge in the exhilarating sport of tubing. Known for its well-organized setup and convenient amenities, this popular destination promises a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for both adults and children.
Effortless Fun with the Magic Carpet Lift – One of the standout features of the Summit at Snoqualmie Tubing Center is its magic carpet lift. This lift is a game-changer, especially when managing the energy levels of little ones. It effortlessly transports you back to the top of the hill, saving you the walk up and allowing more time for the fun part – sliding down! The tubing area boasts over 14 lanes, each extending 500 feet, ensuring there’s ample space for everyone to enjoy without feeling crowded.
*Reservations are recommended as this popular spot can get busy, especially on weekends.
Maximizing Your Tubing Time – While the magic carpet lift is a fantastic feature, it’s worth noting that during peak times, the lines can get quite long. For those who don’t mind a bit of exercise, walking up the hill can be a great alternative, allowing you to squeeze in a few extra runs within your session. Each tubing session lasts for 1 hour and 45 minutes, providing plenty of time to enjoy the snowy slopes.
Booking and Pricing – To ensure a spot on the hill, tickets must be booked in advance online. The tubing hill operates Fridays through Sundays and on holidays, so it’s wise to book early as tickets can sell out quickly. Pricing is standard for adults and kids over 44 inches tall, with a tube included in the ticket. For kids under 44 inches, tickets are offered at a reduced rate, but it’s important to note that these tickets do not include a tube.
Convenient Amenities On-Site – The Summit at Snoqualmie Tubing Center is equipped with port-a-potties, adding to the convenience for families. On our last visit, the delightful surprise of the Pie Bar truck was present, offering delicious post-tubing treats – a perfect way to end a day of snowy adventures.
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2. Hyak Sno-Park |Â Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Hyak Sno-Park, nestled in the scenic Snoqualmie Pass, is the quintessential destination for families seeking to enjoy some classic, do-it-yourself winter fun. This spot is a paradise for those who love the simplicity of a day out in the snow, complete with sledding, laughter, and stunning natural beauty.
Pack Your Sleds and Head to Hyak – One of the best aspects of Hyak Sno-Park is its accessibility and readiness for family adventures. It’s the perfect place to bring your sleds, family, and friends for a memorable day. The park boasts a variety of hills that cater to different thrill levels, ensuring that everyone from the cautious toddler to the adventurous teenager finds their sledding sweet spot.
Amenities for a Comfortable Experience – Understanding the needs of families, Hyak Sno-Park is equipped with convenient amenities. One of the most appreciated features, especially by parents, is the availability of heated bathrooms – a small but significant comfort on a cold winter’s day. Additionally, the park offers ample parking space, making it easy for families to set up their base for the day.
Snow Park Pass Requirement – To use the facilities at Hyak Sno-Park, visitors need a snow park pass. As of winter 2023, a daily Sno-Park permit can be purchased online or on-site for $25. This pass is essential for parking and using the park’s amenities, so be sure to grab one upon arrival to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Enjoy the Groomed Hills – While Hyak Sno-Park doesn’t feature rope tows, it compensates with a couple of groomed hills, providing a smoother and more enjoyable sledding experience. These groomed areas are great for those who want a bit more speed and a less bumpy ride down the hill.
Plan C for Busy Weekends – We’ve made the mistake of getting there at 10:00 a.m. on a weekend only to find a loooong line. We then drove to Gold Creek Pond and found no parking and lines too. The day ended with disappointed kids going home after hours of driving and no sledding. Instead, we stopped for some lunch at Rhodies Smokin’ BBQ (SO GOOD) and playground adventures at not one, but two playgrounds Preston Athletic Fields and Fisher Creek Park.
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3. Gold Creek Sno-Park and Gold Creek Pond |Â Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Snoqualmie Pass, Gold Creek Pond emerges as a winter haven, especially when the popular Hyak Sno-Park reaches capacity. This serene spot, easily accessible and just a stone’s throw from the main road, offers a peaceful alternative for families seeking a day of snow-filled fun.
As you approach Gold Creek, the first sledding area you’ll encounter is the Sno-Park, conveniently located right off the road. This area is a gem for families, particularly those with smaller children or beginners in sledding. The hills here are modest yet delightful, providing a gentle introduction to the thrills of sledding. It’s an ideal spot for those little ones just getting their feet wet (or snowy!) in the world of winter sports.
A short trek from the Sno-Park, further down the road, leads you to the enchanting Gold Creek Pond. This area, a bit more secluded, offers a scenic backdrop for a day of leisurely sledding. The hills around the pond are similarly sized – perfect for young children or those new to sledding. The journey to the pond is part of the adventure, allowing families to enjoy a brief winter walk surrounded by the beauty of the snow-covered landscape.
Remember to get your Sno Park pass before you head out. You’ll need it to park.Â
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4. Half Camp, on the way to Crystal Mountain |Â Enumclaw, WA
In 2020, we found this unofficial sledding hill on the way to Crystal Mountain. On the way to Hyak, we were turned around due to the pass closure. Determined to find an area for sledding, we drove to Crystal Mountain, only to discover you can’t actually sled anywhere on the property. Some on-the-road Google searching helped us find this place.
If you’re heading up towards Crystal Mountain resort, on the left side is Gold Hill Road or FS 7176 to get to Norse Peak trailhead. We parked in the turn-off area that has a few spots to park and walked up the road for some sledding. Note – this is not a groomed nor sanctioned sledding hill, it’s a narrow road with one side being essentially a cliff with lots of trees. So do sled at your own risk and be safe.
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5. Leavenworth Sledding Hill | Leavenworth, WA
Leavenworth, Washington, transforms into a winter fairy tale, complete with its enchanting Bavarian-themed village, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a blend of adventure and charm. From the heart of the downtown area to the outskirts at the Leavenworth Ski Hill, this picturesque town offers a variety of sledding and tubing experiences that cater to winter enthusiasts of all ages.
For an in-depth exploration of a family trip to Leavenworth during the winter, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide: A Magical Winter Family Trip to Leavenworth with Kids
Downtown Leavenworth: A Sledding Haven –Â In downtown Leavenworth, the winter scene is straight out of a storybook. The town’s festive atmosphere and charming Bavarian design enhance the sledding experience. Families are encouraged to bring their own sleds to explore the myriad of opportunities for sledding right in the downtown area. Glide down gentle slopes and enjoy the picturesque surroundings, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Leavenworth Ski Hill: Tubing Fun for Everyone –Â Just a short drive from the town center, the Leavenworth Ski Hill awaits with its 100-foot tubing hill, complete with a convenient rope tow. This feature is especially appreciated by families, as it allows for more runs with less effort. Tubes are available on-site, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun without the need to bring their own equipment.
Warm Up at the Ski Hill Lodge –Â After a day of exhilarating tubing and sledding, the Ski Hill Lodge offers the perfect respite. Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa and share stories of your sledding adventures. It’s the ideal way to wrap up a day filled with winter fun.
6. Suncadia Tubing Hill | Cle Elum, WA
Suncadia Resort, a picturesque destination nestled in the Cascade Mountains, offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for families seeking a winter getaway. The resort’s sledding hill, a highlight of the winter season, provides an exhilarating experience for both young and old. Whether you’re visiting for the day or making a vacation out of it, sledding at Suncadia promises to be a memorable part of your winter escapades.
The Sledding Hill: A Winter Highlight – Located conveniently across from the lodge, where the summer’s driving range comes to life, the sledding hill at Suncadia transforms into a winter wonderland. Its slope is ideally suited for children, offering enough incline to thrill but not intimidate. Our 4-year-olds were particularly fond of it, finding the hill just steep enough to be exciting for solo rides.
Sleds and Tubes: Bring or Rent – You have the option to bring your own sleds to Suncadia, or if you prefer, rent a tube on-site for $10/hour. The rental tubes were a hit with our kids, who favored them over our own gear. The convenience and fun of using the resort’s tubes seem to add an extra element of excitement to their sledding experience.
Breaking the Rules for Extra Fun – Full disclosure: we may have bent the rules a bit by letting our kids tube down together in one tube and going down tandem, two tubes at a time. While not officially sanctioned, these little rebellions added to the joy and laughter of our sledding experience, making for some unforgettable family moments.
Wrap-Up: A Perfect Winter Getaway – Sledding at Suncadia offers a delightful experience for families, combining the thrill of winter sports with the beauty and amenities of a resort. Whether you’re there for a day trip or a longer stay, the sledding hill is a must-try activity. So pack your snow gear, grab a tube, and get ready for some fantastic sledding fun at Suncadia. Your winter adventure awaits!
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7. Lake Wenatchee State Park | Leavenworth, WA
At the heart of the park’s winter offerings is the Sled Hill, situated over a snow-covered access road. Meticulously groomed each day, the hill provides a smooth, gliding surface ideal for sledders of all ages. The gradual slope of the hill makes it accessible and enjoyable, especially for younger children or first-time sledders. The absence of a tow rope keeps the sledding experience authentic and engaging – it’s all about the joy of walking up and sledding down, much to the delight of kids and adults alike.
Getting There
Accessing the Sled Hill is straightforward. Visitors should enter the south section of Lake Wenatchee State Park from SR207, just south of its intersection with SR209. Clear signage directs you to the Sno-Park. Remember to have your Sno-Park pass displayed prominently in your vehicle, as park rangers are diligent in their patrols. The Sled Hill is conveniently located a short distance from the second Sno-Park parking lot, closest to the lake.
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8. Hurricane Ridge | Port Angeles, WA
Hurricane Ridge, nestled in the stunning Olympic National Park, is not just a breathtaking destination for winter sports enthusiasts but also a paradise for families seeking snowy adventures. With its dedicated areas for tubing and sledding, Hurricane Ridge caters to the thrill and fun of young children, making it an ideal location for a family day out in the snow.
Small Children’s Snowplay Area: Perfect for the Little Ones – For families with children eight years and younger, the Small Children’s Snowplay Area, located just west of the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center, is a delightful spot. Here, tubing and sledding are free of charge, allowing the littlest members of the family to enjoy the snow safely. Parents are encouraged to bring their own tubes or sleds, keeping in mind that sleds with runners are not permitted. This area is closely monitored for safety, and in the event of dangerous conditions, it may be temporarily closed.
Walk-Up Tube Run: Fun for All Ages –Â For a more structured tubing experience, Hurricane Ridge offers a walk-up tube run suitable for all ages. At a cost of $24, you get 10 runs down the exhilarating slope. What’s more, the tubing passes are valid for 30 days from purchase, providing the flexibility to spread out the fun over multiple visits. This system operates on a first-come-first-served basis, and the tubes are provided, ensuring a hassle-free experience for everyone.
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9. Echo Valley Tubing Hill | Manson, WA
Echo Valley Ski & Tubing Area, a cherished gem in the Lake Chelan area of Washington State, offers a unique and delightful winter experience for families and winter enthusiasts. As a volunteer-run, non-profit ski resort with a rich history dating back to 1955, Echo Valley has been a cornerstone of winter recreation in the Lake Chelan valley for generations. Known for its friendly, family-oriented atmosphere, the resort is a favorite for both locals and visitors seeking fun in the snow.
Echo Valley’s Tubing Hill: A Thrill for All Ages – At the heart of Echo Valley’s family-friendly offerings is its 6-lane tubing hill. Perfect for kids aged 3 and older, as well as adults, the hill provides an exhilarating snow tubing experience. If you’ve ever glided on snow, you’ll know the sheer joy that comes with it, and Echo Valley’s tubing hill amplifies this fun to new heights.
Special Tubes Provided for Maximum Enjoyment – Echo Valley takes pride in ensuring a safe and enjoyable tubing experience. They supply specially designed tubes for visitors, ensuring that everyone has the right equipment for a thrilling ride down the lanes. To maintain safety standards and the quality of the experience, personal tubes are not allowed.
More Than Just Tubing – While tubing is a highlight at Echo Valley, the resort also offers other winter activities, such as skiing. The variety of winter sports available makes it a versatile destination for families looking to enjoy the colder months in a beautiful setting.
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10. Paradise at Mt. Rainier | Ashford, WA (CLOSED)
As of 1/1/2024 the snow play area is closed due to reduced staffing impacting sledding area operations.Â
The snow play area at Paradise is the only place to sled at Mt. Rainier National Park. For safety, no hard toboggans or runner sleds are allowed – stick to those flexible sleds, inner tubes, and saucers.Â
There are bathrooms and snack options at the visitor center which makes break time just a bit easier for parents.
Entrance to the park is $30 per car.
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Permits You Need
Planning a winter adventure to one of Washington’s beautiful Sno-Parks? Don’t forget one crucial element of your trip: the parking permit. Understanding and obtaining the right Sno-Park permit is essential for a hassle-free and enjoyable visit. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the different types of permits available and ensure you’re fully prepared for your winter excursion.
Types of Sno-Park Permits
When visiting a Sno-Park, there are generally three types of permits you might need:
One-Day Permit: Ideal for those planning a single day of fun in the snow. This permit is perfect for a quick getaway or a spontaneous day trip.
Seasonal Permit: For the frequent winter adventurers, the seasonal permit is a cost-effective option. It covers parking for the entire season, allowing unlimited access to your favorite Sno-Parks all winter long.
Special Groomed Trails Permit: This permit is required for certain Sno-Parks that offer specially groomed trails, providing a premium experience for activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or sledding on well-maintained paths.
Parks Requiring Both Permits Some popular Sno-Parks, including Cabin Creek, Chiawawa, Crystal Springs, Hyak, Lake Easton, Lake Wenatchee, Mount Spokane, and Nason Ridge, require not only the Sno-Park parking permit but also the Special Groomed Trails sticker. This combination ensures maintenance and access to some of the best-groomed trails in the state.
Purchasing Your Permits You can purchase both types of permits starting November 1 through April 30 each season. There are two convenient ways to obtain your permits:
Online: Permits can be purchased easily through the official Sno-Park website. This method allows you to organize your permits in advance of your trip.
Permit Vendors: For those who prefer an in-person purchase or need a permit on the go, numerous vendors across the state offer Sno-Park permits. These vendors are often located in areas convenient to the parks, such as sporting goods stores or local resorts.
Tips and Tricks
Embarking on a sledding adventure with kids can be a memorable and joyful experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Through our own experiences, we’ve gathered some valuable tips and tricks that can make your trip to the snow smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned snow-goer or a first-timer, these insights will help ensure your family’s sledding excursion is a success.
1. Always Check Weather and Road Conditions One of the most important steps before heading out is to check the weather forecast and road conditions. We learned this the hard way by driving through unexpectedly severe snowy conditions. Being prepared for what lies ahead can make your journey safer and less stressful.
2. Keep Your Car’s Windows Clear Dealing with foggy windows while driving in snowy conditions can be a hassle. We discovered a handy trick: turn your defroster on cold to prevent fogging up on the inside of the windows. This can significantly improve visibility and safety while driving.
3. Bring a Shovel for Emergencies After experiencing our car getting stuck in the Hyak parking lot, we now always pack a shovel. Having a shovel can help you dig out your vehicle if it gets buried in snow, ensuring you’re not left stranded.
4. Use a Laundry Basket for Snow Gear Organizing and transporting snow clothes can be a daunting task, especially with kids. We found that packing everything into a laundry basket simplifies both loading and unloading. It keeps your gear together and makes it easy to carry.
5. Portable Potty: A Lifesaver for Little Ones For families with toddlers, a portable potty can be a game-changer. We’ve invested in a portable potty with liners, and it’s been one of our best purchases. It makes handling those urgent potty requests much more manageable, whether in the back of our Subaru or on the back seat floor.
The OXO 2-in-1 Go Potty is a versatile solution for potty emergencies at home of on the go. It's designed for standalone use with disposable bags anywhere or as a potty seat on toilets, making it an essential tool for road trips and park adventures with kids. It's perfect for those "I need to go potty" emergencies.
Favorites: Sleds and Tubes
We’ve gone through at least two sleds and tubes each winter for the past three years. We’ve found the Inflatable Snow Tubes tends to go faster than the plastic ones we’ve had – some of the plastic ones have cracked (mid-run!), so we’ve tried a couple heavy-duty plastic sleds.
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Favorites: What to Wear
Amazon has been great for all the snow accessories – gloves, socks, snow boots, and hats.Â
Snowsuits, kids grow so fast, so we try not to spend too much on snow gear for the kids. We like the two-piece sets that include a jacket and snow bibs.
