You know how some childhood memories just stick with you? One of mine is from a sledding hill. Most days we stayed close to home, the tiny slope in our front yard that ended in the street (real safe, huh?), or the hill at my grandmother’s where we’d build little bumps just to launch ourselves a few extra inches.

But one day, we ventured to the next town over. And that hill felt epic. Not crowded, but buzzing. And suddenly I wondered, how had everyone else known this secret before me? I felt like I’d missed the warp whistles in Super Mario Bros. 3 that let you skip straight to the good part.

So in that spirit, here are the sledding “warp zones” of the Valley, from big thrill runs to perfect first-sled spots. And before we dive in, an honorable mention goes to the old Canton golf course, once home to some truly memorable rides and now the site of The Shops at Farmington Valley. RIP to a real one.

Avon Middle School
Despite being along West Avon Road, this slightly steep hill is ideal. Beyond the hill the flat ground extends for more than 200 yards before the road. The hill is located next to the baseball field in front of the school. All you need to do is bring your sled and you are ready to ride.

Canton High School
When school’s not in session, the high school offers a great community sledding spot. The hill sits just to the right as you pull in and is suitable for all ages. It’s not too steep or too long, the kind of hill kids will happily climb again and again.

Mills Pond Park (Canton)
This public park offers a couple of fun sledding options: one hill near the playground and another closer to the road. Start on one, then switch to the other for a change of scenery. And if the conditions are right, the snow-covered playground slide adds a bonus winter challenge.

Hill‑Stead Museum (Farmington)
The Hill-Stead’s biggest asset after it’s large art collection is it’s grounds. Of course they flourish in the warm months, but it’s an amazing spot in the winter too. For sledding there is a large slope on the hill just behind the estate. It’s great for older kids, thrill-seekers, and anyone willing to climb the big hill just to do it all again.

Farmington High School
This one likely isn’t a secret, as you can see it from Route 4. It has a steep incline and plenty of space to keep going. It’s a classic sledding spot. Although the hill abuts Route 4, there is plenty of flat ground to gain friction between the hill and the road, however someone acting as a supervisor isn’t a bad idea.

West District Elementary School (Farmington)
Many locals love to recommend this hill for sledding with little kids. It has a gentle hill on the back of the school which is ideal for less experienced sledders. But with the right conditions and the know how you could make it all the way to the edge of the woods.

Simsbury Farms Golf Course
Bring your tubes, smooth bottom plastic sleds and even your toboggan to the 9th hole. You can get there by driving up the main entrance and continuing on to the right and parking behind the main building. It’s a well known hill, that’s great for older kids as many love to make jumps. Just make sure to go in the winter otherwise you could do some real damage.

Elizabeth Park (West Hartford / Hartford)
Although it’s known for it’s highly manicured gardens in the spring and summer months, don’t forget about this park come winter. It has a great sledding hill east of Prospect Ave and just south of Asylum Avenue. While not the biggest hill it’s quite steep which always draws a crowd.

Buena Vista Golf Course (West Hartford)
When the snow falls, Buena Vista turns into one of the community’s favorite sledding spots. Hills of all shapes and sizes make it perfect for every age and adventure level, from tiny sledders to teens chasing speed. Park along Cornerstone Drive, bundle up with a thermos of hot cocoa, and enjoy a full day of winter fun. Go to the hill between the greens of the seventh and eighth holes for the steepest thrill.

Here’s what’s on deck this week around the Valley — mark your calendars!

Look for icons to find your crowd: 🎈 kid-friendly • 👤 adult • 🌞 all ages

Brilliant Mistake
Looking to connect with others in the community? Yearning for creative expression? Join Brilliant Mistake on Saturday, January 10th at Farmington Public Library! It will be in Meeting Room #1 at 1pm.

This is a casual local group for ages 16 and up. Supplies for collage/junk journaling and zinemaking will be provided. Feel free to bring a project of any kind that you might be working on, even if it's just your 2026 planner to fill in!

Contact Sara at [email protected] to RSVP by January 8th, or with any questions!

Library Events

Discover what’s happening at your local library. Registration may be required—check with each library for full details and other events.