Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Ottawa’s best toboggan hills include Mooney’s Bay Park (the largest and most popular), the Central Experimental Farm Arboretum (steepest runs), Brewer Park (ideal for beginners), and Britannia Park (great for families). The City of Ottawa maintains 75 designated sledding hills across all neighbourhoods from Kanata to Orléans.
Whether you’re seeking gentle slopes for toddlers or steep hills for thrill-seekers, Ottawa’s network of city-approved toboggan hills provides free, safe winter fun throughout the season. According to Ottawa Tourism’s winter activities guide, tobogganing remains one of the capital’s most beloved family traditions. All hills are inspected for safety and open dawn to dusk.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa offers 75 city-approved toboggan hills across all neighbourhoods, ranging from gentle beginner slopes to steep advanced hills. All hills are free to use, open dawn to dusk during winter, and maintained by the city. Bring your own sled, dress warmly in layers, and always supervise children.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Season | December through March (snow dependent) |
| 📍 Location | 75 hills across all Ottawa neighbourhoods |
| 🎟️ Cost | Free at all city-approved hills |
| ⏰ Hours | Dawn to dusk daily |
Understanding Ottawa’s Toboggan Hill System
The City of Ottawa designates and maintains 75 specific hills across the municipality for tobogganing and sledding. These hills are evaluated for safety, monitored throughout winter, and officially sanctioned for public use.
What Makes a City-Approved Hill:
City-approved toboggan hills meet specific safety criteria:
- Appropriate slope grade (not too steep or dangerous)
- Clear run-out areas at the bottom
- Free from obstacles like trees, posts, or playground equipment
- Sufficient distance from roads, parking lots, and water features
- Regular inspection and maintenance by city staff
Why Stick to Approved Hills:
Using designated hills ensures a safer experience for your family. Non-approved slopes may have hidden hazards, insufficient run-out zones, or proximity to dangerous areas. The city has done the safety assessment work for you.
Finding Your Local Hill:
The City of Ottawa maintains an interactive map showing all 75 approved toboggan hills. You can search by neighbourhood, ward, or proximity to your home to find the most convenient locations.
Best Toboggan Hills by Skill Level
Beginner Hills: Perfect for Young Children
These gentle slopes are ideal for toddlers and children experiencing their first toboggan rides. The gradual inclines provide excitement without overwhelming young sledders.
Top Beginner Hills:
Brewer Park (Old Ottawa South)
- Location: 151 Brewer Way
- Gentle slope perfect for ages 2-6
- Wide hill accommodates multiple sledders
- Nearby parking and washrooms at Brewer Pool
- Sheltered area for warming up
McNabb Park (Lower Town)
- Location: 180 Percy Street
- Small neighbourhood hill ideal for first-timers
- Close supervision easy on compact hill
- Minimal walk from street parking
- Protected from wind by surrounding buildings
Centrepointe Park (Nepean)
- Location: 101 Centrepointe Drive
- Multiple gentle slopes for different ages
- Extensive parking available
- Close to amenities and transit
- Popular with preschool and daycare groups
Beginner hills provide safe, gentle slopes for young children’s first sledding experiences.
Safety Tips for Beginner Hills:
- Always stay at the bottom to catch young children
- Use sleds with steering mechanisms for better control
- Start with short runs to build confidence
- Teach children to wait until the hill is clear before going
- Consider using a rope to pull children back up steep sections
Intermediate Hills: Family-Friendly Fun
Intermediate hills offer more excitement while remaining manageable for most ages. These are perfect for families with mixed-age children or kids ready to progress beyond beginner slopes.
Top Intermediate Hills:
Mooney’s Bay Park (Riverside South)
- Location: 2960 Riverside Drive
- Multiple hills of varying steepness
- Massive park with space for everyone
- Parking lot with washrooms
- Skating rink nearby for multi-activity days
- Concession stand open weekends
Britannia Park (Britannia)
- Location: 2805 Carling Avenue
- Popular west-end location
- Several different runs to explore
- Beach area in summer creates natural slopes
- Ample parking and facilities
- Connection to winter skating activities
Vincent Massey Park (Old Ottawa East)
- Location: Heron Road at Riverside Drive
- Large open areas with varied terrain
- Scenic views of Rideau River
- Multiple access points
- Close to downtown
- Often less crowded than Mooney’s Bay
Walter Baker Park (Barrhaven)
- Location: 100 Malvern Drive
- Newer suburban park with excellent facilities
- Well-maintained grounds
- Plenty of parking
- Sports centre with indoor washrooms
- Growing popularity in fast-developing neighbourhood
Advanced Hills: Thrill-Seekers Welcome
For older children, teens, and adults seeking maximum speed and excitement, these steep hills deliver adrenaline-pumping rides. Always exercise extra caution on advanced slopes.
Top Advanced Hills:
Arboretum Experimental Farm (The Glebe)
- Location: Prince of Wales Drive entrance
- Legendary status among Ottawa sledders
- Steep, fast hills with long runs
- Popular with teens and university students
- Limited parking fills quickly on weekends
- Bring your own equipment; no facilities on-site
Andrew Haydon Park (Nepean)
- Location: 3169 Carling Avenue
- Steep hill near the Ottawa River
- Long, fast runs
- Spectacular winter views
- Beach parking lot accessible in winter
- Experienced sledders only
Bruce Pit (Nepean)
- Location: 3061 Cedarview Road
- Multiple steep slopes around the off-leash dog park
- Popular with dog owners combining activities
- Long runs with significant speed
- Uneven terrain adds challenge
- Watch for dogs on and near hills
Conroy Pit (Alta Vista)
- Location: 2370 Conroy Road
- Hidden gem with challenging slopes
- Less crowded than more famous hills
- Several run options
- Free parking nearby
- Worth the search for experienced sledders
Advanced hills provide thrilling, fast runs for experienced sledders seeking excitement.
Safety Warnings for Advanced Hills:
- Only for confident sledders with good control
- Helmets strongly recommended
- Avoid toboggans with multiple riders (harder to control)
- Scout the hill before your first run
- Stop immediately if conditions seem unsafe
- Watch for jumps or moguls created by previous sledders
Best Hills by Neighbourhood
Kanata Hills
- Glen Cairn Park - 195 Castlefrank Road (intermediate)
- Katimavik-Hazeldean - 99 Hazeldean Road (beginner)
- Beaverbrook Park - 99 Grenfell Glen (intermediate)
- Briargreen Park - Briargreen Avenue (beginner)
Barrhaven Hills
- Walter Baker Park - 100 Malvern Drive (intermediate)
- Longfields-Davidson Park - 100 Meadowbreeze Drive (beginner)
- Woodroffe Kiwanis Park - 2330 Woodroffe Avenue (intermediate)
- Cedarview Park - 3110 Cedarview Road (beginner)
Nepean Hills
- Centrepointe Park - 101 Centrepointe Drive (beginner)
- Andrew Haydon Park - 3169 Carling Avenue (advanced)
- Britannia Park - 2805 Carling Avenue (intermediate)
- Leslie Park - 1015 Ramsey Crescent (intermediate)
Orleans Hills
- Avalon Park - 1480 Avalon Drive (intermediate)
- Portobello Park - 1295 Portobello Boulevard (beginner)
- Queenswood Park - 250 Queenswood Drive (intermediate)
- Chapel Hill Park - 4101 Innes Road (beginner)
Gloucester Hills
- Bearbrook Park - 2035 Bearbrook Road (intermediate)
- Crestview Park - 1895 Russell Road (beginner)
- Emerald Meadows Park - 5660 Conroy Road (intermediate)
- Conroy Pit - 2370 Conroy Road (advanced)
Downtown/Central Hills
- Brewer Park - 151 Brewer Way (beginner)
- Arboretum Experimental Farm - Prince of Wales Drive (advanced)
- Strathcona Park - 390 Somerset Street West (intermediate)
- McNabb Park - 180 Percy Street (beginner)
Essential Gear and What to Bring
Sleds and Toboggans
Types of Sleds:
- Plastic saucers: Lightweight, affordable, good for beginners, limited steering
- Foam sleds: Safe, inexpensive, slower speeds, ideal for young children
- Traditional toboggans: Classic wooden or plastic, hold multiple riders, harder to steer
- Steering sleds: With handles and steering mechanism, best control, worth the investment
- Snow tubes: Fun and fast, minimal control, best for advanced hills with clear run-outs
- Crazy carpets: Ultra-lightweight, minimal cushioning, good for older kids
What to Avoid:
- Sleds with sharp edges or metal components
- Homemade sleds that haven’t been safety-tested
- Inner tubes not designed for sledding (can puncture)
- Anything too small for the rider’s size
Clothing and Safety Gear
Dress in Layers:
- Moisture-wicking base layer (avoid cotton)
- Insulating mid-layer (fleece or wool)
- Waterproof outer layer (snow pants and jacket)
- Extra mittens (they will get wet)
- Warm hat covering ears
- Neck warmer or scarf
- Waterproof boots with good traction
Safety Equipment:
- Helmet (especially for advanced hills)
- Sunglasses or goggles for bright days
- Sunscreen (sun reflects off snow)
- First aid kit in your car
- Fully charged phone
What Else to Pack
- Thermos with hot chocolate or warm drinks
- Snacks for energy
- Extra clothes in your car
- Towel for drying off
- Hand and foot warmers
- Rope for pulling sleds uphill
- Plastic bag for wet items
- Small shovel if conditions are icy
Safety Guidelines for Ottawa Toboggan Hills
Before You Go
- Check conditions: Recent ice rain can make hills dangerously fast
- Inspect your sled: Ensure no cracks, sharp edges, or damage
- Review rules with children: Wait for clear hill, feet-first only, exit quickly
- Tell someone your plans: Share location and expected return time
- Check weather forecast: Avoid tobogganing in storms or extreme cold
At the Hill
General Rules:
- Only use city-approved toboggan hills
- One person per sled (unless designed for multiple riders)
- Go down feet-first only (never head-first)
- Wait at the top until the hill is completely clear
- Exit the run-out area immediately after your run
- Walk up the sides of the hill, never in the middle
- Keep sleds under control at all times
- Stop immediately if someone is injured
Supervision Requirements:
- Children under 6 must be directly supervised
- Never leave young children alone at the top
- Position yourself to intervene if needed
- Watch for signs of hypothermia or frostbite
- Take regular warming breaks every 30-45 minutes
Warning Signs to Leave:
- Icy conditions making the hill too fast
- Overcrowding creating dangerous situations
- Signs of frostbite (white patches on skin, numbness)
- Hypothermia symptoms (shivering, confusion, fatigue)
- Equipment failure or damage
- Children becoming reckless or unsafe
Common Injuries and Prevention
Most Common Toboggan Injuries:
- Sprains and fractures (wrists, ankles, legs)
- Concussions from collisions
- Cuts and bruises
- Hypothermia and frostbite
Prevention Strategies:
- Use appropriate hills for skill level
- Maintain control and reasonable speeds
- Avoid overcrowded hills during peak times
- Clear jumps and bumps that form on popular runs
- Take breaks to prevent fatigue-related accidents
- Never tie sleds together
- Avoid tobogganing after dark
Best Times to Visit
By Day of Week
Weekday Mornings (Mon-Fri before noon):
- Nearly empty hills
- Fresh snow conditions
- Easy parking
- Peaceful experience
- Ideal for young children or first-timers
Weekday Afternoons (Mon-Fri 3-6 PM):
- After-school crowds
- Energetic atmosphere
- Hills can become rutted quickly
- Parking may be challenging at popular spots
Weekend Mornings (Sat-Sun 9 AM-12 PM):
- Moderate crowds
- Good snow conditions
- Families with young children
- Parking fills by 10 AM at popular hills
Weekend Afternoons (Sat-Sun 12-4 PM):
- Peak crowding
- Wait times for popular runs
- Rutted and icy conditions possible
- Most social and energetic atmosphere
By Season
Early Season (December-Early January):
- Fresh enthusiasm for winter activities
- Holiday visitors increase crowds
- Snow conditions variable
- Some hills may not have sufficient snow base
Mid-Season (Mid-January-Early March):
- Best snow conditions
- Packed snow creates fastest runs
- Cold temperatures may limit time outside
- Most consistent hill availability
Late Season (March):
- Slushy, heavy snow
- Milder temperatures more comfortable
- Hills may be muddy or patchy
- Shorter wait times as interest wanes
Weather Considerations
Best Conditions:
- Fresh snowfall of 5-10 cm
- Temperatures between -5°C and -15°C
- Sunny with minimal wind
- Packed snow base with powder on top
Conditions to Avoid:
- Ice rain or freezing rain (dangerously fast and hard)
- Extreme cold below -25°C (frostbite risk)
- High winds (wind chill danger)
- Active snowstorms (visibility issues)
Combining Activities: Multi-Activity Winter Days
Toboggan + Skating
Several Ottawa parks offer both toboggan hills and skating rinks for all-day winter fun:
- Mooney’s Bay Park: Hills and outdoor rink
- Britannia Park: Hills and community rink
- Lansdowne Park: Nearby hills and skating court
- Brewer Park: Hills and indoor arena
Toboggan + Cross-Country Skiing
Combine sledding with Nordic skiing at:
- Central Experimental Farm: Adjacent to Gatineau Park trails
- Greenbelt locations: Several hills near ski trails
- Mer Bleue: Tobogganing and snowshoeing opportunities
Toboggan + Winter Festivals
Plan your sledding around Ottawa’s winter events:
- Winterlude activities (early February)
- Christmas Market visits (December)
- Community winter carnivals throughout the season
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the 75 toboggan hills maintained by the city?
The City of Ottawa designates and monitors 75 official toboggan hills but does not actively groom or maintain them like ski slopes. The city inspects hills for safety hazards, removes dangerous obstacles, and ensures appropriate signage. However, natural snow conditions and compaction from use shape the actual sledding surface. Report any safety concerns to 311.
Do I need to bring my own toboggan or are there rentals?
You must bring your own sled or toboggan. There are no rental facilities at Ottawa’s public toboggan hills. Sleds are available at Canadian Tire, Walmart, sporting goods stores, and many local retailers throughout winter. Prices range from $10 for basic foam sleds to $100+ for premium steering sleds. Consider borrowing from neighbours or checking secondhand stores.
What age is appropriate for tobogganing?
Children as young as 2-3 years can enjoy gentle beginner hills with direct parental supervision. Start with very short, gentle slopes and adults riding with young children on larger sleds. Children typically develop independent sledding skills around age 5-6. For steep advanced hills, children should be at least 10-12 years old with demonstrated sliding skills and good judgment.
Can adults use Ottawa’s toboggan hills?
Absolutely! Ottawa’s toboggan hills welcome sledders of all ages. Many advanced hills like the Arboretum Experimental Farm attract primarily teens and adults seeking speed and thrills. Just match your hill choice to your skill level and physical abilities. Remember that falls can cause more serious injuries in adults than children, so exercise appropriate caution.
Are toboggan hills free to use in Ottawa?
Yes, all 75 city-approved toboggan hills are free to access. There are no fees, passes, or tickets required. Simply arrive with your equipment and enjoy. Parking at most locations is also free, though some popular parks may charge standard parking fees in summer (usually free or minimal in winter).
What if there isn’t enough snow at my local hill?
Ottawa’s toboggan hills require natural snowfall and are completely dependent on winter weather. If your local hill lacks sufficient snow, check the interactive map for alternatives. Hills with northern exposures or in areas that receive more snow may be ready earlier. You can also visit indoor winter activities when outdoor conditions aren’t cooperating.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s 75 city-approved toboggan hills offer something for every family, from gentle beginner slopes perfect for first-time sledders to heart-pounding advanced runs that challenge even experienced thrill-seekers. The city’s commitment to maintaining designated sledding areas ensures families can enjoy this classic Canadian winter activity safely throughout the season.
Whether you choose a neighbourhood hill within walking distance or make a special trip to one of Ottawa’s legendary sledding destinations like the Experimental Farm or Mooney’s Bay, tobogganing creates lasting winter memories. Bundle up, grab your sled, review the safety guidelines, and experience the pure joy of flying down a snow-covered hill with cold air in your face and laughter all around.
Winter in Ottawa is meant to be embraced, not endured. With 75 fantastic options across every neighbourhood, there’s never been a better time to rediscover the simple pleasure of tobogganing.
Source: City of Ottawa Parks and Recreation, Ottawa Tourism
