Top Places to Go Sledding in DC

1. Capitol Hill

One of the most iconic places to sled in the city, Capitol Hill becomes a snowy playground when conditions allow. The gentle slopes make it especially popular with families, and sledding here feels like a true DC snow-day tradition.

2. Rock Creek Park  

Stretching through much of the city, Rock Creek Park offers multiple sledding areas with wooded backdrops and varying hill sizes. Popular spots feature longer, steeper runs that appeal to older kids and adventurous sledders.

3. Meridian Hill Park — Northwest

Known for its terraced landscaping and dramatic elevation changes, Meridian Hill Park draws crowds after a snowfall. Its open slopes provide plenty of space for sledding, though it can get busy during peak snow days.

4. Fort Reno Park — Tenleytown

As the highest natural point in Washington, DC, Fort Reno is a favorite for longer, faster sled runs. The wide-open hill attracts thrill-seekers while still offering room for beginners.

5. Battery Kemble Park — Northwest

This park offers a quieter sledding experience with scenic views. Its broad, grassy hill is well suited for families looking for steady runs without heavy crowds.

6. Book Hill Park — Georgetown

 A neighborhood favorite, Book Hill Park features shorter slopes that are ideal for younger children. It’s a convenient option for quick sledding sessions close to home.

7. Gallaudet University — Northeast

The gently sloping lawns on Gallaudet’s campus become popular sledding areas during snowstorms. The open space allows for relaxed, family-friendly sledding in a unique campus setting.

8. Eastern High School — Northeast

Eastern High School’s hill is a longtime local sledding spot in Northeast DC. Its smooth incline and wide area make it a reliable choice for community sledding when schools are closed.

Many parks have gentle slopes that are great for smaller kids. Photo by Daniil Kondrashin via Pexels

Top Places to Go Sledding Near DC in Maryland

9. Wheaton Regional Park — Wheaton

One of Montgomery County’s most popular sledding destinations, Wheaton Regional Park features wide, open hills with long runs and room for large crowd.

10. Cabin John Regional Park — Bethesda

Known for its spacious terrain, Cabin John offers multiple sledding options with varying slopes, making it a good choice for families with kids of different ages.

11. Rockville Civic Center — Rockville

Often considered one of the best sledding hills in the region, this park boasts a large, steep hill that delivers fast, exciting runs when snow conditions are right.

12. Pine Crest Elementary School — Silver Spring

A neighborhood favorite, Pine Crest’s hill is ideal for younger children and casual sledding, offering a safe and manageable slope.

13. North Bethesda Middle School — North Bethesda

This schoolyard hill provides steady inclines and open space, making it a reliable local sledding spot after winter storms.

14. Takoma Park Middle School — Takoma Park

A regional classic, this steep and wide hill draws sledders from across the area and is best suited for older kids and teens looking for speed.

Make sure to keep kids bundled up and hydrated during a day of sledding! Photo by Mommy Poppins

Top Places to Go Sledding Near DC in Northern Virginia

15. Air Force Memorial — Arlington

With sweeping views and long slopes, the Air Force Memorial grounds are a popular sledding destination that combines scenic beauty with exciting runs.

16. George Washington Masonic Temple — Alexandria

This Alexandria landmark offers one of Northern Virginia’s most well-known sledding hills, featuring long descents and a lively snow-day atmosphere.

17. Wolf Trap National Park — Vienna

Wolf Trap’s broad, grassy slopes create a relaxed sledding experience with plenty of room to spread out, even on busy snow days.

18. Windmill Hill Park — Alexandria

A quieter neighborhood park in Old Town, Windmill Hill provides gentle slopes that are great for families and younger sledders.

19. Lake Fairfax Park — Fairfax 

Known for recreation year-round, Lake Fairfax features excellent sledding hills near picnic areas that are popular with families.

20. Jefferson Manor Park — Alexandria 

This community favorite offers a solid incline and open space, making it a dependable sledding choice in the southern part of Alexandria.

21. Ida Lee Rec Center — Leesburg 

This Loudoun County favorite offers smooth, open hills that work well for sledding and winter play, especially for younger children.

22. Ashland Elementary School — Manassas

A trusted local spot, Ashland Elementary’s hill provides easy access and manageable slopes, making it ideal for neighborhood sledding.

With so many options to choose from, let's make some of the best winter memories on any of the snow days that come our way by enjoying one (or a few) of these tops sleeding spots in the D.C. area this season!

FAQs About Sledding Near DC

Q: What are the best sledding hills near DC for toddlers and preschoolers?
A: With their gentle slopes, Capitol Hill and Book Hill Park in DC, Cabin John Regional Park in Maryland, and Windmill Hill Park and Lake Fairfax Park in Virginia are some of the best options for smaller sledders.

Q: What are the best sledding hills for older kids and teens?
A: DC's Fort Reno Park, Maryland's Rockville Civic Center and Takoma Park Middle School, and Virginia's Air Force Memorial, Masonic Temple, and Wolf Trap have larger, steeper hills that bring older kids and teens lots of speed. 

Q: Are there any sledding hills with bathrooms nearby?
A: While we cannot guarantee they will be open, Gaulladet University, Cabin John Regional Park, Wheaton Regional Park, and Wolf Trap National Park have on-site restrooms.

Q: Do any sledding hills have nearby food options?
A: Yes! Head to these spots for a day of sledding and sustenance:

• Capitol Hill: There are a plethora of kid-friendly restaurants within walking distance from the sledding area, including Ted's Bulletin - Capitol Hill, The Roost food hall, Hawk N Dove, and La Casina.
• Book Hill: In the heart of Georgetown, this spot is near a ton of restaurants and grab-and-go shops and bakeries including Yellow, Boulangerie Christophe, and Pho Asian Bistro, just to name a few.
• Gaulladet University: Nearby Union Market has lots of stalls and vendors to grab a quick snack or full meal, while the equally convenient H Street offers cafés, pizza, and more family-friendly spots.
• Windmill Park: This park is about a 10-minute walk from Old Town Alexandria, which boasts lots of great cafés and restaurants including Vola's Dockside Grill, Misha's Coffee,and  Red Rocks Pizza.
• Ida Lee Rec Center: This spot ;is close to Leesburg's Historic District with many options for everyone, such as Cowbell Kitchen, Trinity House Cafe, Fireworks Pizza, Leesburg Diner, Mom's Apple Pie, Second Nature Coffee and Dolce and Ciabatta.

Tips for a Successful Day of Sledding Near DC

No Sled? No Problem!

An inverted trash- can lid or a hard-sided boogie board will work in a pinch. Your local hardware store probably sells a few simple sleds, too.

Layer, Layer, Layer

​Wear waterproof mittens or gloves, snow boots, a hat, and warm, comfortable base layers under water-resistant coats and snow pants.

Arrive Early

This will ensure you'll beat the largest crowds and get the freshest snow.

Bring Water and Snacks

You can still get dehydrated even when it's cold outside! Pack plenty of water and snacks, as many sledding hills are not near restaurants or grocery stores.