Milwaukee's Best Sledding Hills: Your Ultimate Winter Guide

The greater Milwaukee area delivers some of Wisconsin's best free sledding—from lit nighttime hills with warming houses serving hot chocolate to hidden neighborhood gems perfect for toddlers' first rides. After researching over 40 sledding locations across Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, and surrounding counties, we've compiled everything North Shore families need to plan the perfect snow day adventure.

Whether you're seeking a gentle slope for your two-year-old or a thrilling 400-foot drop for adrenaline-seeking teens, this guide covers exact locations, parking details, amenities, and the insider tips that make the difference between a magical outing and a frustrating one.

Our top five picks for every family

Whitnall Park (Franklin) earns the crown as Milwaukee's premier sledding destination with its 400-foot hill, full-service warming house with hot chocolate and snacks, and evening lighting until 8:30 p.m. For North Shore families seeking variety without driving to Waukesha County, Kletzsch Park (Glendale) offers multi-level slopes for all abilities along scenic Milwaukee River bluffs. Currie Park (Wauwatosa) shines as the best all-ages destination with the metro's longest lighting hours (until 10 p.m.) and an adjacent heated Golf Dome snack bar.

Closer to home, Mee-Kwon Park's "Mule Hill" (Mequon) provides the perfect family day out with sledding, ice skating, and a warming house all in one Ozaukee County park. And for little ones taking their first runs, Mount Bayside at Ellsworth Park delivers a gentle, wide slope nicknamed by locals who've been sledding there for generations.

North Shore communities

Mee-Kwon Park — Mequon's crown jewel

6333 W. Bonniwell Road, Mequon | Ozaukee County Parks

The locally beloved "Mule Hill" offers a long, gentle grade that's earned its reputation as the North Shore's best family sledding spot. The shallow slope builds confidence in beginners while still delivering satisfying runs for school-age kids. Smaller side slopes provide even gentler options for nervous first-timers.

What sets Mee-Kwon apart is its complete winter experience. A warming house by the skating pond provides refuge from the cold, and the adjacent ice rink (weather permitting) means you can make a full day of it. Accessible portable restrooms, picnic areas, and 63 acres of mature woods for post-sledding exploration round out the amenities.

Key details: Hours 6 a.m.–9 p.m. daily (no sledding after dark) | Free admission | Park caretaker: (262) 689-4684

Kletzsch Park — Glendale's riverside gem

6560 N. Milwaukee River Parkway, Glendale | Milwaukee County Parks

Kletzsch stands out for its multi-level slopes accommodating every skill level in one location. Gentler grades near the parking area work beautifully for toddlers and cautious sledders, while steeper sections challenge thrill-seekers. The park's stunning riverside setting along the Milwaukee River adds scenery unmatched by most suburban hills.

At 141 acres, the park never feels overcrowded. Restrooms are available seasonally, and the Oak Leaf Trail provides additional winter walking options. Cross-country skiing trails activate when snow conditions allow.

Key details: Open until 10 p.m. | Free admission | Beautiful fall/winter photography spot

Mount Bayside — The village's beloved gathering spot

9075 N. Regent Road, Bayside (north of Village Hall)

Generations of Bayside families have nicknamed this Ellsworth Park hill "Mount Bayside," and it's earned that affection. The wide, gentle slope offers gentle edges perfect for nervous first-timers and toddlers, while still delivering satisfying speed for elementary schoolers. It's not towering, but it's the biggest hill in the village and delivers a solid experience.

Parking tip: Use the designated lot off Fairy Chasm Road on the west side of the sled hill OR the Village Hall South Parking Lot. The village requests no street parking—respect the neighbors!

Bonus: Watch for 1840 Brewing Company's Winter Beer Garden events at Mount Bayside featuring bonfires for parents (check their schedule for dates).

Cahill Square Park — Whitefish Bay's neighborhood hub

1001 E. Fairmount Avenue, Whitefish Bay

Cahill's small hill suits young children learning to sled in a friendly, community-focused atmosphere. The slope is just steep enough to pick up fun speed without intimidating beginners.

The real draw is the Cahill Warming House with restrooms (open year-round, reservable for parties at 414-963-3947) plus the NHL-regulation-size refrigerated ice skating rink—not weather-dependent thanks to its glycol-cooled surface. Skate after sledding for the ultimate winter double-header.

Key details: Park hours sunrise–9 p.m. | Walking distance to Whitefish Bay shops and restaurants | Playground upgrade coming summer 2025

⚠️ Important note for Klode Park: Per Whitefish Bay Municipal Code, sledding is prohibited on the bluff below the top. This is enforced—use Cahill or nearby Kletzsch instead.

Estabrook Park

4400 N. Estabrook Drive, Shorewood/Glendale border

Estabrook's sledding hills offer solid runs along the scenic Milwaukee River, but the real winter draw is the Estabrook Beer Garden—the first public beer garden in the U.S. since Prohibition. Check winter hours, as it's the perfect post-sledding warmup for parents while kids explore the park's disc golf course and nature trails.

Free parking throughout the park, and the Oak Leaf Trail provides excellent winter walking.

Noyes Park — Glendale's quieter option

A family-friendly alternative when Kletzsch feels too crowded. Noyes features a moderate slope that's perfect for kids who want adventure without intimidation. Typically less crowded than its famous neighbor, making it ideal for families preferring a relaxed atmosphere.

Wauwatosa and the western corridor

Currie Park — The complete family destination

3535 N. Mayfair Road, Wauwatosa | Milwaukee County Parks

Currie earns its reputation as Milwaukee's best all-ages sledding hill. The long, shallow grade means even toddlers can enjoy satisfying runs, while the enormous open space prevents the collisions and close-calls common at steeper hills. Smaller hills near the parking lot serve the youngest sledders.

Three features make Currie exceptional: it's lit until 10 p.m. (the latest of any county park), the adjacent Golf Dome's heated snack bar offers indoor warming with food and drinks, and a massive dog park means four-legged family members can play too.

Key details: Free parking in adjacent lot | Free admission | Weeknight evening sledding after work/school totally viable

Honey Creek/Dewey Hill — For thrill-seeking families

7620-7624 N. Honey Creek Parkway, Wauwatosa (west of Aurora VNA Zilber Family Hospice)

This unofficial but well-known hill delivers what adrenaline-seekers crave: a steep initial drop from a ridge that provides a thrilling, speedy start before evening out to a long, safe glide. The west side offers gentler runs suitable for younger kids.

Caution: Gets crowded on weekends; watch for icy or dirt spots on warmer days. Located on Milwaukee County parkland, free and open to public.

Brookfield and Elm Grove

Wirth Park — Two hills plus ice skating

2585 Pilgrim Road, Brookfield

Brookfield's go-to sledding destination offers two sledding hills at one location, giving families variety without moving the car. The slopes cater more to the younger crowd but work for all ages. Evening lighting from 4:30–8:30 p.m. enables after-work/school sessions.

The warming house opens during ice rink supervision hours, and the on-site skating rink means you can combine activities. Porta-potties available near the base.

Mitchell Park — Sled while the dogs play

19900 River Road, Brookfield (entrances off Capitol Drive and River Road)

Park near the dog run to access this all-ages hill. The adjacent fenced dog park creates a perfect scenario: one parent sleds with kids while the other walks the dog on trails. Consistently fun for toddlers through teenagers.

Schmidt Park — The hidden toddler gem

Brookfield (between Barker and Brookfield Road, off Capitol/River Road)

Street parking only, but worth seeking out. One local mom describes it perfectly: "Steep enough to give my almost 4-year-old a good ride, but short enough that he could walk himself back up with the snow tube all by himself." That independence factor matters enormously for little legs.

Elm Grove Village Park — Challenging terrain for older kids

13600 Juneau Boulevard, Elm Grove

The manufactured hill on the park's north end earns consistently high marks from locals. Described as "huge" and "pretty steep," this hill suits ages 8 and older best. The beautiful 1.7-mile paved path around the pond offers post-sledding walks.

Nearby warmup: Sister's Brew coffee shop

Waukesha County parks

Waukesha County operates some of the region's finest sledding hills, but note the fee structure: $7 daily permit or $40 annual membership (2 for $60). Seniors 60+ receive 50% off. Parks use license plate scanners—pay within 5 days online or at Retzer Nature Center.

Check conditions at waukeshacounty.gov/snowconditions before driving.

Minooka Park — Spacious and safe

1927 E. Sunset Drive, Waukesha | Park at Picnic Area #4

The spacious, wide hill works for all ages with officially sanctioned sledding—sleds, tubes, and snowboards all permitted. Heated restrooms with flush toilets at Picnic Area #5 (short walk from hill). Six miles of groomed cross-country ski trails extend the adventure.

Nashotah Park — Toddler paradise

W330 N5113 County Hwy C, Nashotah | Park at Picnic Area #2 (top of hill)

The gentle slope and convenient parking at the hilltop make Nashotah ideal for families with very young children. No hauling sleds up hills repeatedly—just park and slide. Flush toilets at the picnic area.

Nearby warmup: Inclusion Coffee (drive-through), Birch & Banyan, Creole Cafe in Hartland

Nature Hill — For experienced sledders only

850 Lake Drive, Oconomowoc (behind Nature Hill Intermediate School)

Very steep terrain along the Green Trail delivers thrills but demands respect. Trees near the hill create collision risks, the descent is harder to control, and the hike from the small parking lot (~8 vehicles) adds challenge. Best for older elementary kids, teens, and adults who can handle unpredictable runs.

Not recommended for toddlers or beginners.

New Berlin's three great options

Calhoun Park — Two hills for every ability

5400 S. Calhoun Road, New Berlin | Dawn–11 p.m.

The northwest slope offers full sledding and tobogganing below the starting barrier, while the southwest slope provides a small-fry hill for little ones (sleds and saucers only). Families with mixed ages appreciate having options without relocating.

Valley View Park — Lit evening sledding

5051 S. Sunny Slope Road, New Berlin | Dawn–11 p.m.

Open, lighted sledding hill with tobogganing permitted. Restrooms, archery range, disc golf, and cross-country ski trails make this a complete winter destination.

Southern suburbs

Whitnall Park — Milwaukee's best sledding, period

5879 S. 92nd Street, Franklin | Milwaukee County Parks

The 400-foot main hill nicknamed "Hospital Hill" delivers the steep, fast runs that serious sledders crave. For families with mixed ages, a smaller beginner hill sits north of the main slope, perfect for young children building confidence.

But Whitnall's true superpower is its amenities. The Whitnall Clubhouse features a fireplace, hot chocolate, coffee, snacks, hot dogs, fries, and even beer. Restrooms inside. Cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals available. Evening lighting runs 4:30–8:30 p.m.

Weekend hours for the clubhouse: Saturday 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

Insider tip: Visit on weekends for potential sled dog ride experiences (paid).

Humboldt Park — Bay View's neighborhood hill

3000 S. Howell Avenue, Milwaukee

A moderate slope perfect for relaxed sledding in the park's northwest section. Evening lighting until 8:30 p.m. enables after-work sessions. The real draw? Proximity to Bay View's exceptional restaurant and bar scene for post-sledding warmups within walking distance.

LaFollette Park — One giant bunny hill

9418 W. Washington Street, West Allis | Milwaukee County Parks

Described as "one giant bunny hill," this gentle, long slope delivers the perfect first sledding experience. The wide-open landing area eliminates collision worries, though the longer walk back up provides a workout. Best for young children and absolute beginners.

Greene Park — The St. Francis option

4235 S. Lipton Avenue, St. Francis

Moderate hill west of the parking lot with restrooms and a nearby tot lot for breaks. Convenient for Cudahy and South Milwaukee families. Free, officially designated.

Hidden gems most families miss

Urban Ecology Center — Free sleds and hot cocoa

Riverside Park: 1500 E. Park Place, Milwaukee

The Urban Ecology Center provides something unique: members can borrow sleds for free, and all visitors get complimentary hot cocoa and tea inside. Gentle slopes suit young children perfectly. The center posts hill conditions on their website. Also available at Washington Park and Menomonee Valley branches.

Brown Deer Park — Short but intense

7835 N. Green Bay Road, Milwaukee

A short hill with a 50-degree drop that's "not for the faint of heart." Lit until 8 p.m., but arrives early—this one gets crowded. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails available in the scenic, lake-adjacent setting.

St. Mary's Hill — Lake views with your thrills

2323 N. Lake Drive, Milwaukee

A steep 40-degree incline with stunning Lake Michigan views makes this unofficial spot popular with locals who know. Caution: The hill ends at a parking lot—hay bales may cushion stops, but experienced sledders only.

Indigenous Peoples' Park — Urban wilderness

7301 W. Courtland Avenue, Milwaukee (formerly Columbus Park)

This 385-acre park feels like an escape to the Northwoods. One large hill plus gentler rolling hills provide variety. Public restrooms available, and crowds are typically lighter than more famous spots.

Paid tubing experiences worth the drive

When you want groomed lanes, magic carpet lifts, and guaranteed conditions, these commercial options deliver:

Crystal Ridge (Franklin) — Closest to Milwaukee

7900 Crystal Ridge Drive, Franklin (Ballpark Commons complex) | ~15 minutes from downtown

Nineteen tubing lanes with magic carpet lift and a 220-foot vertical drop. The real draw: Glow Tubing on select Saturday nights with colored lights. Full lodge with dining and warming area. Approximately $22+ per ticket; book online in advance as sessions sell out. Tubes provided—don't bring your own.

Wilmot Mountain — Largest near Milwaukee

11931 Fox River Road, Wilmot | ~40 miles south

Twenty-two tubing lanes over 1,000 feet long each—serious length for serious fun. Two conveyor lifts. Height requirement 42 inches. Pricing: $27 weekdays, $36 weekends. Part of Vail Resorts with separate tubing lodge.

Sunburst Winter Sports Park — World-class tubing

8355 Prospect Dr., Kewaskum | ~30 minutes northwest

Forty-five+ lanes earning USA Today Top 10 recognition. Quarter-mile runs with 90-foot drops hitting speeds up to 30 mph. Height requirement 42 inches.

Quick reference tables

Best hills by age group

Age Group Top Picks Toddlers (2-4) Schmidt Park (Brookfield), Nashotah Park, Mount Bayside, Cahill Park, Fowler Park (Oconomowoc) Young kids (5-8) Currie Park, Mee-Kwon Park, LaFollette Park, Minooka Park, Wirth Park Older kids (9-12) Kletzsch Park, Whitnall Park (small hill), Mitchell Park, Calhoun Park Thrill-seekers/Teens Whitnall Park (main hill), Nature Hill, Brown Deer Park, Honey Creek, St. Mary's Hill

Evening sledding options (lit hills)

Park Lights Until Notes Currie Park 10 p.m. Longest hours, indoor snack bar nearby Whitnall Park 8:30 p.m. Warming house with concessions Pulaski Park 10 p.m. South side option Humboldt Park 8:30 p.m. Bay View restaurants nearby Brown Deer Park 8 p.m. Gets very crowded Wirth Park 8:30 p.m. Two hills plus skating Valley View Park Variable New Berlin lighted hill

Warming houses and hot chocolate

Location Amenities Whitnall Park Full clubhouse: fireplace, hot chocolate, snacks, hot dogs, beer Mee-Kwon Park Warming house at skating pond Cahill Park Warming house with restrooms Currie Park Golf Dome snack bar (heated, indoor) Urban Ecology Center Free hot cocoa and tea for all visitors Wirth Park Warming house during skating hours

Safety essentials and practical tips

Before you go:

• Check conditions at waukeshacounty.gov/snowconditions for Waukesha County parks

• Urban Ecology Center posts hill status on their website

• Milwaukee County parks open sledding when snow cover permits

What to bring:

• Waterproof snow pants, jacket, boots, hat, and mittens (not gloves—mittens are warmer)

• Sturdy sled with handles (avoid makeshift items)

• Extra dry clothes for the car ride home

• Hand warmers for little fingers

• Thermos with hot chocolate for parking lot warmups

Safety rules worth following:

• Sled forward-facing only—never head-first

• Avoid slopes ending in streets, parking lots, or water

• Check for obstacles (trees, rocks, fences) before each run

• Consider helmets for steeper hills and younger children

• Take warming breaks to prevent hypothermia

• Supervise children at all times

Insider timing tips:

• Best conditions: Morning after fresh snowfall

• Smallest crowds: Weekday afternoons

• Avoid: Holiday weekends at popular spots like Brown Deer Park

• Pro move: Bring the dog to Mitchell Park—one parent sleds while the other walks trails

Plan your perfect snow day

The greater Milwaukee area offers something for every family—from the adrenaline rush of Whitnall's 400-foot "Hospital Hill" to the gentle magic of a toddler's first run at Mount Bayside. All Milwaukee County Park hills are completely free, making sledding one of winter's most accessible family adventures.

For the ultimate winter day, combine sledding at Mee-Kwon Park with ice skating on the pond, warm up in the heating house, then grab hot chocolate at a Mequon coffee shop. Or hit Whitnall Park for serious runs, refuel at the clubhouse, then explore nearby Wehr Nature Center's winter trails.

Whatever you choose, Wisconsin winters reward families who embrace the cold. Bundle up, grab those sleds, and make some memories on the hills.