In the aftermath of a good blanketing of snow, nothing is more fun than dusting off the sled and finding the nearest and steepest hill to race down.
Looking for a new hill to try? Look no further. Here’s our guide to local sledding spots.
SUFFOLK COUNTY SLEDDING
The Grange
The gentle slope of this centrally located hill, hailed as the perfect spot for first-time sledders, will get plenty of giggles from the little ones as they learn how to slip and slide down the snow-covered wonderland. 10 Broadway Ave., Sayville.
Herman Griem Park
Bundle up before trekking outside for the icy adventure that awaits you on the rolling hills frequented by scarf-and-mitten-clad locals. 54 Brown Blvd., Wheatley Heights
Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve
Grab your sled and get ready: the slopes in Smithtown are prime for some high-mph action with top speeds of “woah” and “lets-do-that-again” being recorded. 200 New Hwy., Commack.
Mattituck High School
The kids might all have a snow-day but the sizable hills at this school will have the students and teachers coming right back! 15125 Main Rd., Mattituck.
Bald Hill
Though this is not officially the highest point on Long Island, it is a close second, and very high indeed. Every major snowstorm, families from all across the Island flock to its slopes for their share of winter magic and adrenaline. Patchogue-Mt. Sinai Rd., Farmingville.
Belmont Lake State Park
This sprawling, historic park that overlooks Belmont Lake has some fantastic hills, but be sure to take caution and stick to the open fields; an ‘ice bath’ wouldn’t be a fun way to end your sledding adventure! Southern State Parkway, West Babylon.
Heckscher State Park
Not only does this park have many different sledding and snowman-making spots to enjoy, but every once and a while, if you are truly lucky, you may see the furry inhabitants of its woods. Deer, among other winter critters, are a common sight at this classic sledding spot. 1 Heckscher State Pkwy., East Islip.
Hauppauge High School
Those destined for this sledding spot ought to arrive early because it is so popular parking becomes a challenge with all the families coming from near and far to ride the hills bordering this school’s field. 500 Lincoln Blvd, Hauppauge.
NASSAU COUNTY SLEDDING
Bethpage State Park
Featuring hilly, winding terrain and wide open fields, this park has adventures in store for sledding masters and novices alike. True thrill seekers can check out Bethpage Black, though be warned these slopes shouldn’t be attempted unless under strict supervision and in permitted areas. 99 Quaker Meeting House Rd., Farmingdale
Cedar Creek Park
A go-to barbecue and picnic spot in the summer, this gem off Merrick Road is an equally great go-to spot for sledding during these cold, wintery months. 3340 Merrick Rd., Seaford.
Eisenhower Park
Ask your fellow sledders to point you in the direction of Old Sled Hill, renowned as Eisenhower Park’s great peak. Warning: Stay away from the hills by the lake! Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow.
Washington Avenue Park
Year after year, the immense baseball pit and steep hills of this beloved park beckon daring kids and adults alike! The parking situation can be scarier than the hills at this local spot, so be prepared to battle it out for street-parking. Washington Ave, Seaford.
The Pits
Although it may be known as “The Pits” locals swear you’ll have a blast on the field’s steep hill. Corner of Lakeview and Ocean Ave., Malverne.
Newbridge Road Park
While most of this park is flat, there is one manmade hill right next to the ice skating rink that is perfect for sledding with a clear path into the baseball fields below. 2600 Newbridge Rd., Bellmore.
