Best Tobogganing

So far it has been a warmer and greener winter than we have be used to in this area.    With the fall of snow today, I thought I'd share some great spots to go tobogganing this weekend and take advantage of the natural snowfall.

In Waterdown, people love to flock to Memorial Park to take advantage of the rolling hills for tobogganing, but the City of Hamilton (which Waterdown is a part of), began putting up signs in it's parks last year warning of a $5000 fine for tobogganing in it's parks.    Seems the City was being sued for injuries that people suffered while tobogganing in City Parks so they began posting those signs last year.    I have not heard of anyone actually being fined, but still, I would not risk it.   

As a girl I loved to toboggan at the "Reservoir" in Hamilton located at the corner of Garth & Stonechurch.    I have not been there for years and do not know if there are signs posted there warning of fines but it was always a great spot to toboggan for free.

In looking up great places to go tobogganing in the area, I found recommendations for:

Lowville Park   http://cms.burlington.ca/Page428.aspx

Bronte Creek Provincial Park   http://www.brontecreek.org/explore-bronte-creek.htm

Dundas Valley Conservation Area   http://www.conservationhamilton.ca/area-information/conservation-areas/area-information/dundas-valley

...I also saw comments from parents on-line who recommended Orchard Park (Burlington) just off of Sutton Drive in the Orchards area in East Burlington which

Tobogganing/Sled Recommendations:
#1 – Crazy Carpet – Out of control tobogganing which makes it our number 1. Not ideals for parents doubling up with young children. Safety first!
#2 – Inflatable Tube – This fan favorite is easy on the backside, it’s fast and is awesome over jumps.
#3 – MX Sled – These seem to be rising in popularity in part to x games marketing. Part bike, part snowboard the MX Sled delivers a stand up experience that promotes new tricks and the evolution of tobogganing!
#4 – Snow Moto – Similar to the GT Snow racer of the 80′s and 90′s, this little sled stands up well to abuse. Good for jumps, speed and durability. Many reviews though do insist that kids over 11-12 years old will find it too small to use.
#5 – Wood Toboggan – Had to put this on the list, but more so to say that it’s a waste of money! Do not buy a wood toboggan if you want to toboggan. It’s like the silent rule that almost everyone knows. Don’t be that person that shows up at the hill with your kids carting in this heavy coffee table…

Make sure you are thinking safety too. Especially with toddlers and younger. Helmets are always a good idea and make sure you dress warm. Hot chocolate in a thermos is always a good idea too. Most of all have fun tobogganing!