When the snow finally sticks in SE Kansas City, there’s only one question families are asking: Where are the best hills for sledding? Whether you’ve got cautious toddlers or fearless big kids ready to fly, these local spots are family favorites for winter fun.
Important note: Sledding at these locations is unofficial. Always supervise children closely, sled during daylight hours, and use caution on icy or crowded hills.
👶 Best Hills for Toddlers & Younger Kids
- Hillcrest Community Center Hill
This is a go-to for families with little ones. The hill is smaller with a gentler slope, making it ideal for toddlers who are just getting the hang of sledding. Bonus points for easy parking and quick trips when attention spans are short. - School Hills in Ruskin Heights & Hickman Mills
Many neighborhood schools have perfect beginner hills that aren’t too steep. These work best on weekends or snow days when school is out. They’re great for short runs and repeated climbs that won’t wear out little legs too fast.
🧒 Best Hills for Big Kids & Thrill Seekers
- Longview Lake (Jackson County Parks)
This is the MVP of sledding in SE KC. Longview offers wide, long hills with varying slopes—perfect for older kids who want speed and distance. There’s plenty of room for groups, but it can get busy after a big snowfall. - Minor Park
With longer rolling hills and lots of open space, Minor Park is a great option for big kids who want room to roam. It tends to feel less crowded and works well for families with kids of different ages and energy levels.
❄️ Sledding Tips for Families
- Bring extra gloves (someone always gets soaked).
- Cardboard works in a pinch, but sleds and tubes go faster.
- Pack a thermos of hot cocoa for warming up between runs.
- Helmets aren’t a bad idea for the bigger hills and faster kids.
🛷 Know a Great Sledding Spot We Missed?
We know some of the best sledding hills are local favorites that don’t always make the list! If you have a go-to hill your family loves, we’d love to hear about it. You can share your suggestions by commenting on our sledding post on social media or by submitting the details through our “Send the Deets” Google Form. Your tips help us keep this guide updated and help other families discover new places to play in the snow.
This article was written with the assistance of ChatGPT and reviewed for accuracy and local relevance.
