Snowy slopes: Places to sled around Philadelphia

For those who don't fancy snowboarding and skiing on a mountain resort, Philadelphia and its surrounding regions are full of hills of all sizes to get your snow thrills on. Grab your sled or your trashcan lid and hit up these sloped parks.

Austin Meehan Middle School (3001 Ryan Ave.) Philadelphia

Austin Meehan Middle School is a great spot to get your thrills on. The hill is pretty steep, so get ready to fly fast to the bottom. Not only is the hill steep, but it is also wide, making more room to sled if it gets crowded.  

Baldi Middle School (8801 Verree Road) Philadelphia

Tennis courts usually don't have hills, but this school's court has one, and it's steep. The hill is concrete and slides directly down to the tennis court. There's also a grass hill next to the court for those who think the bank is too intimidating.

Belmont Plateau (Fairmount Park) Philadelphia

Fairmount Park's Belmont Plateau is one of the hotspots in the city for any snow sporting needs. Kids will have a blast down this steep hill, and for parents, you can snap a memorable photo of your little ones with the city skyline in the background.

Burlhome Park (Cottman and Central Avenues) Philadelphia

This Northeast Philly favorite includes one major hill, and other smaller ones on the side, giving you more than one option. If you choose a side hill, make sure you don't fly into the driveway of Fox Chase Cancer Center.

Clark Park (4398 Chester Ave.) Philadelphia

Located in University City, this park is not so steep, making it perfect for kids and students who don't want to get hurt before finals.

Fort Washington State Park (420 Militia Hill Road) Fort Washington

A great variety of hills are located at this Montgomery County park, including "suicide hill," the favored slope that will speed you, and possibly bump you off your sled, as you travel down it.

Green Lane Park (2144 Snyder Road) Green Lane

This park is a great space for kids who want a gentle ride down a hill. It's wide and open so the collision factor isn't so bad.

John Byrne Golf Course (9550 Leon St.) Philadelphia

This Northeast Philadelphia golf course is favored by many and gets crowded quick. Get here early and enjoy the large hill.

Odorisio Park (418 Fairview Park) Wayne

This public park includes a choice of three hills. If you seem to not be able to find it, just spot the baseball field and you're all set.

Philadelphia Museum of Art (2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway) Philadelphia

Running up the steps in the winter can get slippery. Why not just grab a sled and slide down the steps? These steps will bump you pretty good since it's stairs, flat, stairs, and so on. If you're into more of bumpy ride than just a straight shot down a hill, this one's for you.

Strath Haven High School (205 S. Providence Road) Wallingford

This high school is a great spot for friends and family to line up and speed down the hill. If the hill isn't up to your expectations, build a ramp and launch of it.

Thomas Mansion (6245 Wissahickon Ave.) Philadelphia

Nicknamed "Tommy's Hill", this hill is quite the ride down. Just make sure you don't lose control and hit a tree.

Tyler State Park (101 Swamp Road) Newtown

This Bucks County state park is used for many outdoor activities, so of course when it snows, sledding is allowed. The slopes that are recommended are below the Upper Plantation picnic area parking lot, and the hill west of the covered bridge pass.

Valley Forge National Historical Park (1400 N. Outer Line Dr.) King of Prussia

King of Prussia's park includes a wide variety of hills, making this a perfect place for kids and families of all ages. For the extremist, there are hills just for you to speed down. For the tots, Valley Forge park will be a great option, too!

Walnut Lane Golf Course (800 Walnut Lane) Manayunk

People who sled in Manayunk do like to sled at "The Wall", but that's dangerous considering a chance of running into traffic. Play it safe and sled on the numerous slopes and hills this golf course has to offer.

Water Tower Park (200 East Hartwell Ln.) Philadelphia

The slopes and bumps on this hill will make you feel like you're at a mountain resort in Pennsylvania, except this hill is free admission.