Best Sledding Hills in Milwaukee’s North Shore 2025
Mount Bayside sledding
Conquering North Shore Slopes: Your Guide to Family-Friendly Sledding
When winter blankets the Milwaukee North Shore in fresh snow, it’s time to bundle up the family and seek out the best local hills for sledding fun. Whether your kids are just learning to navigate a sled or they’re seasoned pros, these snowy spots promise good times and plenty of memories in the making.
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Kletzsch Park
Location: Glendale
Highlights:
Gentle & Steep Sections: Kletzsch Park’s hill offers variety—beginners can stick to gentler slopes, while older kids and thrill-seekers can tackle the steeper side.
Picturesque River Views: The scenic Milwaukee River runs through the park, adding a serene backdrop to your sledding adventure.
Family Amenities: There’s convenient parking, restrooms (open seasonally), and sometimes a warming shelter, depending on the weather and park schedule.
Kletzsch Park’s multi-level slopes make it a prime choice for families of all ages. When everyone’s ready to warm up, you can explore the park’s trails on foot or head home for some hot cocoa.
Cahill Park
Location: Whitefish Bay
Highlights:
Neighborhood Charm: Tucked in a safe, residential area, Cahill Park is a local favorite that offers a friendly atmosphere.
Moderate Slopes: Just steep enough to pick up speed, but gentle enough for younger sledders to join the fun.
Nearby Ice Skating: When conditions allow, the park’s outdoor rink is another great way for families to enjoy winter activities close by.
Cahill Park provides a comfortable, community-focused setting that’s perfect for families who want to spend a snowy afternoon without battling big crowds.
Mount Bayside (Ellsworth Park)
Location: Bayside
Highlights:
Nickname “Mount Bayside”: While the hill isn’t towering, it’s well-known among locals for delivering a solid sledding experience, especially for school-age kids.
Wide Slope: The broad space at Ellsworth Park helps prevent crowded runs and collisions.
Playground Nearby: Kids can slide down the slopes, then explore the park’s playground if they need a quick break from the snow.
“Mount Bayside” is ideal for a quick burst of winter excitement. If you have toddlers or beginners in tow, the gentle edges of the hill are a safer spot for them to get comfortable on a sled. Parking is available in the lot located off of Fairy Chasm Road, on the west side of the sled hill. The village requests that you do not park on the street.
Brown Deer Park
Location: Brown Deer / Milwaukee area
Highlights:
Varied Terrain: This large Milwaukee County park has rolling hills, so you can find a slope that suits every sledder’s comfort level.
Parking & Warming Shelters: Ample parking and occasional open shelters make it a convenient winter destination.
Cross-Country Skiing: If you want more than sledding, Brown Deer Park also features trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, when conditions allow.
Brown Deer Park often feels like a winter wonderland with its expansive grounds and scenic lake. A day here offers plenty of ways to enjoy the snow beyond sledding alone.
Noyes Park
Location: Glendale
Highlights:
Family-Friendly Hill: Perfect for a moderate sledding adventure, without the intimidation of a super-steep drop.
Recreation Facilities: The park also has an indoor pool (check schedules for winter hours) if your family wants to warm up post-sledding.
Quiet Setting: Compared to busier sledding hills, Noyes Park tends to be more relaxed, making it a great option for families with small children.
Noyes Park is a cozy spot where families can enjoy a lower-key sledding experience. It’s an excellent backup plan if other hills are too crowded or if you’re looking for less hustle and bustle.
Sledding Safety & Success Tips
Dress in Layers: Hats, gloves, boots, and waterproof outerwear are a must for frosty conditions.
Choose the Right Sled: Pick sturdy sleds with good handles—avoid items like garbage can lids or pool toys that aren’t made for winter use.
Scope Out Obstacles: Before heading downhill, check for trees, rocks, or fences. Safety first!
Mind the Time: Shorter sessions with breaks in between help kids (and parents) stay warm and happy.
Check Local Guidelines: Some parks have specific sledding rules or closed-off areas, so it’s worth a quick look at official websites before you go.
Wrapping Up Your North Shore Winter Fun
The Milwaukee North Shore is brimming with sledding hills that are ideal for families seeking laughter and a bit of adrenaline. From gentle slopes for novices to more exhilarating runs for confident sliders, these parks offer something for everyone. Bundle up, grab your sleds, and prepare for a memorable day of fun in the snow. When it’s time to warm up, you’ll have plenty of stories to share over steaming mugs of cocoa—another reason to love winter in the North Shore. Enjoy your next snowy adventure!
