Pienten Helsinki
Looking for a sledding hill? Weather permitting, the Helsinki region and surrounding areas have some wonderful places for sledding. Helsinki's only official sledding hill can be found at the Paloheinä outdoor recreation area, while evaluating other hills for sledding purposes is always the responsibility of the sledder. But what do you think is the best sledding hill in the greater Helsinki area? The favorite spot of the Little Helsinki team can be found in the stunning national landscapes of Porvoo!
This article was first published in 2019.
Helsinki's Most Popular Sledding Hills
Kaivopuisto is a classic sledding hill, with its long slope attracting sledders year after year. However, inexperienced sledders should be careful of the trees on the slope, as speed can increase quite dramatically here. Nearby you'll also find a couple of different playgrounds and, for example, Uunisaari, which is easily accessible during winter.
Taivaskallio in Käpylä is popular with local children and it seems people travel from quite far to sled here. It's a wonderful historic location surrounded by lovely wooden residential buildings.
Annala Manor hill in Toukola is a delightful outdoor spot for a day off. Annala Manor's café is open mainly on Sundays. Nearby you'll find, for example, Vanhankaupunginkoski rapids, the Museum of Technology, and Annala stables.
The hill next to Leikkipuisto Orava playground in old Herttoniemi is a really good destination for children, though the slope is quite steep with some gentler sections as well. Next to it is the aptly named Orava playground, which was renovated a few years ago.
Leikkipuisto Rudolf hill in Laajasalo is popular with families in the area. The playground itself is also versatile with activities for various ages.
Reader tip! Next to Tali golf course and the manor, you'll find an open slope where you can sled past a large oak tree onto the golf course.
Tullisaari Park in Laajasalo has several gentler slopes for those who prefer a slower pace. The location is also a wonderful adventure spot and a nice place to spend time outdoors with children. At the Kaitalahti end of the area, there's a small playground. Unfortunately, café services are not available.
Topelius Park in Töölö is suitable for smaller sledders and those who prefer a slower pace. Nearby you'll find the Sibelius Monument, several cafés, a playground, and the Töölö Library.
From Kaisaniemi Park, next to Kaisaniemi Elementary School, you'll find steep bumps where you'll often see people sledding. Nearby are, among other things, the Kaisaniemi Botanical Garden, a small but really nice playground, and city center services.
Paloheinä Sports Park's sledding hill is Helsinki's only official sledding hill, where efforts have been made to make sledding as safe as possible. Because it's Helsinki's only official hill and the area is popular with winter athletes, it's often crowded during peak season. The Paloheinä outdoor lodge café operates near the sledding hill. Paloheinä also has dedicated ski trails for children and occasional ski rentals. Note that Paloheinä outdoor area has paid parking.
Myllypuro landfill hill at the end of Alakivi Street is a good destination for outdoor activities and sledding. If the landfill hill is too steep for sledding, you'll find several other suitable sledding spots in the surrounding area for all skill levels. Near the landfill hill are, for example, Myllynsiipi playground and Myllypuro sports park.
Sinebrychoff Park in Hietaniemi is a classic location almost in the heart of the city. The slope is quite steep for the smallest sledders. With good luck, you can catch a glimpse of the horses living in Sinebrychoff's stable at the corner of the park. There are several cafés nearby, and at the top of the park there's also a small playground.
Alppipuisto next to Linnanmäki is a surprisingly large area with various small hills and fun adventure spots. The area also has good places to spot trains and enjoy views.
Kontula sledding park's Kesoilinmäki is an excellent place for winter outdoor activities with children. The slope is good and quite safe, though you should be careful of the park's light poles.
Finland's Finest Sledding Hill?
Finland's perhaps most stunning (and wildest) sledding hill can be found in Porvoo in the national landscapes, between Old Porvoo and Linnamäki in the Maari area. Near Old Porvoo's services (note opening hours!) and Porvoo Cathedral.
But what do you think is the best sledding hill in the greater Helsinki area?
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