1. Longkill Park
Corner of Longkill Road and Parkside Trail, Ballston Lake
the vibe: Wide hill leading down to a field
why it’s the best: You can see the entire field from the hilltop, so your little ones will never be out of sight.
pro tip: Parking can be limited by the field, but there’s usually parking near the playground.
“Our kids always make new friends. Snowball fights happen. They share sleds and try to make the longest sled train. It’s always a good day. Then we head to the Ballston Lake Stewart’s for a treat before heading home.” –Kim Ann Mansfield
2. Capital Hills at Albany Golf Course
65 O’Neil Road, Albany
the vibe: Hilly golf course with lots of options for sledding
why it’s the best: When the golf course closes for the season, it becomes an off-leash dog park, so you can bring your furry friends along.
pro tip: Warm up at Capital Hills’ onsite restaurant, Martel’s.
3. Frear Park Municipal Golf Course
2701 Lavin Court, Troy
the vibe: Many hill options, from gentle to steep enough for parents to question taking a ride themselves
why it’s the best: The hills have long run-outs for slowing down at the bottom.
pro tip: The steepest spot is near the fifth hole, but it’s usually less busy near Frear Park View off Strain Avenue.
“While the putting greens at Frear Park are known to be unfair and ruin many rounds of golf, by the time they’re covered with snow, golfers can leave that pain behind and bring their children for a fun day of sledding.”
–Matt Croson
4. Lincoln Park
228 Eagle Street, Albany
the vibe: Steep hill that’s been downtown Albany’s go-to sledding spot for generations
why it’s the best: With a snow tube, you can easily get air going down into the bowl.
pro tip: Back in the day, locals called it Dead Man’s Hill.
5. The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing at Barnwell
3230 Church Street, Valatie
the vibe: Popular Columbia County hill that gets a lot of foot traffic from locals
why it’s the best: The hill isn’t overly steep but makes for a long ride and a walk up
that isn’t too strenuous.
pro tip: There are only a few parking spots at the top of the hill, but you can park at the playground at the bottom.
6. Wood Road Elementary School
300 Wood Road, Ballston Spa
the vibe: Steep hill off the back of Ballston Spa’s elementary school complex that leads to a large, flat field
why it’s the best: Because of its location, it’s a popular meetup spot for Ballston Spa families. And there’s plenty of parking.
pro tip: Some parents teach their little ones to ski on the hill.
“Skip leg day! The hill is steep and you’ll be sure to get a workout in helping your kids head to the top in between runs.” –Christine Boyd
Honorable Mention:
- Collins Park, Scotia
- Central Park, Schenectady
- Indian Meadows, Glenville
- Bethlehem Town Park, Delmar
- Knox Town Park, Knox
- Tork’s Hill, Voorheesville
- Sand Creek Middle School, Colonie
