Top 5 Sledding Hills in Guelph: From Thrills to Family Fun

Family Day turned out to be an extraordinary adventure for my 11-year-old son and me as we embarked on a quest to discover Guelph’s top sledding hills. With our GT snow racer and saucer sled in tow, we explored the top 5 most recommended sledding hills, diving into the heart of local discussions often seen in Guelph’s Facebook groups. Despite the buzz, a detailed guide on what makes each hill stand out was amiss—until now!

We’ve detailed our experiences, offering insights into the pros and cons of each hill, through the lens of my son’s youthful enthusiasm and my practical perspective on accessibility.

1. Westwood Hill: A Family Favourite
Rating: (10/10)

Our adventure began at Westwood Hill, a spot we hadn’t tried before but quickly understood its popularity. The hill’s expansive layout and ample parking were a hit, providing a perfect blend of fun for all ages and skill levels. However, the absence of a designated walk-up area requires extra caution.

Pros: Ideal for all ages, spacious and beginner-friendly slopes.
Cons: Lack of a separate path for ascending the hill.

Award: Best Family-Friendly Hill

Location: Westwood Public School, 495 Willow Rd, Guelph

2. Country Club Hill: The Roller Coaster Ride
Rating: (7/10)

Next, we tackled Country Club Hill, a hidden gem that revealed itself as a thrilling roller coaster ride with its unique grading changes. Despite its appeal, the hill’s accessibility and a flat midpoint affecting momentum were slight drawbacks.

Pros: Exciting changes in grading, welcoming for families.
Cons: Challenging to locate, with half the hill less usable due to a flat section.

Location: The Guelph Country Club, 133 Woodlawn Rd, Guelph – easiest to enter from Waverley Dr & Riverview Place entrance closest to Riverside Park.

3. Mole Hill: The Need for Speed
Rating: (9.5/10)

The debate between “Moe” and “Mole” Hill was settled the moment we laid eyes on this thrilling slope. Perfect for speed enthusiasts and older children, Mole Hill offers an exhilarating descent with a challenging climb back up. (check out the big debate here)

Pros: Fast-paced fun, great for adventurous kids, ample parking.
Cons: Steep climb, not suited for beginners or very young children.

Award: Best Hill for Older Kids

4. Mary Phelan Hill: The Perfect Pitch
Rating: (8/10)

Our journey continued to Mary Phelan Hill, a welcoming spot with ample parking and a layout similar to Westwood. Its gentle pitch and an unexpected bump at the end provided joy for sledders of all ages.

Pros: Easy access, spacious, suitable for all ages.
Cons: A school’s proximity at the hill’s base poses a slight risk.

Location: Mary Phelan Catholic School, 8 Bishop Court, Guelph

 

5. Kortright Hill: The Best of Both Worlds
Rating: (10/10)

Concluding our adventure at Kortright Hill, a place close to our hearts, we were reminded of its unmatched appeal. Offering diverse sections for different experience levels, it stood out as the best overall hill, despite the occasional parking challenge after heavy snowfall.

Pros: Varied difficulty levels, easy ascent.
Cons: Parking can be tricky in deep snow.

Award: Best Overall Hill

Location: Hanlon Creek Park, 505 Kortright Rd W, Guelph

 

Conclusion: A Day of Joyful Discoveries

Our Family Day adventure was not only a day of bonding together while tobogganing, but also deepened our appreciation for Guelph’s winter wonderlands. Each hill, with its unique character, offered a different slice of joy, proving that Guelph is indeed a haven for sledding enthusiasts! Happy Slope Seeking and Sledding!