5 best sled hills in all of WV!

The Mountain State has some of the fastest slopes around. Grab your sled and head to the hills for an afternoon of fun.

Here’s where to spend that snow day:

1. West Virginia University

Ask any student in Morgantown where they like to sled, and they’ll probably say the same thing: Law School Hill.

Come winter, scholars (and locals) flock to the towering crest, which overlooks WVU’s stadium and the downtown area.

2. Blackwater Falls State Park

Brace yourself — this hill has speed to burn, all .25 miles of it!

Blackwater Falls State Park’s slope is made for speed. It’s not obviously steep like Law School Hill, but sledders routinely hit 40 mph anyway. Officials recently installed a conveyor, too, so you won’t have to march a quarter mile back to the top. In fact, it’s the world’s longest “magic carpet” for a snow resort.

The park’s annual “Duct Tape and Cardboard Sled Race” is a blast, too. Using nothing but basic materials and ingenuity, families create their own vehicles. Whoever maintains control and crosses the finish line wins! Other awards up for grabs include team spirit and fastest sled.

To make things even sweeter, Blackwater Falls has evening sessions. Sled into the sunset on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays! A warming hut and snack bar keep you thawed between sets.

3. Pipestem Resort State Park

At 200 yards long, this hill trumps any backyard bump. What’s more, Pipestem has a generous rental policy with low hourly fees.

You’re allowed to bring your own sled, too. Staff will want to inspect it first, though, to make sure everything is “go for launch.”

4. Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground

This wide hill overlooks Coopers Rock State Forest. Snowy trees border the 350-foot lane from top to bottom— an experience that delights your inner child.

The pleasure continues with refreshments, rentals, and sleds and tubes for sale. The yearly “Toboggan Festival” draws folks from miles around, too. Games like sled limbo and pin-the-nose-on-the-snowman are crowd favorites.

5. Cato Park

With its towering summit, this hill is designed for sledding. Every snowfall sends Charleston families running to Cato Park for hours of speedy entertainment. What’s more, 19th and 20th-century homes add interest to the historic grounds.

Where do you like to go sledding in wild, wonderful West Virginia?

This post was last updated on July 28, 2020