UPDATED NOVEMBER 2025

Winter in Halifax, Nova Scotia can be long so when fresh snow arrives, it’s the perfect time to bundle up, grab a sled, and enjoy one of the easiest (and cheapest) winter activities out there. No fancy gear – just energy and a good hill.

The good news? Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford, and surrounding areas are packed with fantastic sledding and toboggan hills for every age and skill level. And unlike some provinces with strict bylaws limiting where you can sled, Halifax is wide open. If there’s a hill and fresh snow, you’re likely good to go.

Below is a roundup of the best sledding hills in Halifax, Nova Scotia, plus a helpful interactive map you can use to find a run close to home.


Best Sledding Hills in Halifax

Halifax (Downtown) – Citadel Hill

One of the most iconic and busiest sledding hills in Halifax. Big, open slopes, easy parking, and cafés nearby for warming up after. A proper Halifax winter classic.

West End Halifax – Old Ashburn Golf Course

A long-time favourite with wide-open runs.

West End Halifax – Flynn Park

Smaller and twistier. Better suited to older kids and teens who want something more adventurous.

South End Halifax – Gorsebrook Junior High

Perfect for families with lots of different slopes and inclines. A reliable go-to for safe, easy sledding.

North End Halifax – Merv Sullivan Park (“The Pit”)

Known as the big hill in Halifax. Steep, fast, and brilliant fun but the bowl-shaped bottom means collisions can happen. Helmets strongly recommended.

North End Halifax – Fort Needham Park

A gentler option, ideal for younger children. Short climb back up, easy runs, and a lovely community feel.

Clayton Park – The Mother Hill (Behind MSVU)

A long run with a gradual incline, making it one of the most popular sledding hills in the city.


Top Sledding Spots Outside Halifax

Cole Harbour – Ritchley Crescent Hill

A wide, quiet cul-de-sac with a great hill and lots of parking thanks to the church at the top.

Dartmouth – Brightwood Golf Course

Snowy days pack this spot quickly. Beautiful scenery and hills for all skill levels.

Dartmouth – Dartmouth Commons

Head towards the gazebo to find a well-loved local hill used by families year after year.

Dartmouth – Shubie Park

A steep hill near the campground, one of our favourites when our kids were little.

Timberlea – Brunello Links

A great hill located between tee 3 and 4. Brunello also offers ski trails and an outdoor skating rink.

Bedford – DeWolf Park

A popular family option with a gentle incline and plenty of room to spread out.

Oakfield Park

Worth the short drive. Fun hills, great scenery, but note the longer walk in during winter as the gate is closed.

Fall River – New Ashburn Golf Course

Several hills in a beautiful setting. Busy, but loads of space for everyone. A proper leg workout getting back up to the top.


Find a Sledding Hill Near You

To make it even easier, here’s an interactive Google Map with many of the best sledding hills in Halifax and surrounding communities: Perfect for choosing a hill that matches your family’s comfort level, from gentle slopes to high-speed runs.

👉 Interactive Map: https://goo.gl/BCsAUd


❄️ Halifax Sledding FAQs

Where are the best sledding hills in Halifax?

Citadel Hill, The Pit (Merv Sullivan Park), Gorsebrook Junior High, Fort Needham Park, and The Mother Hill in Clayton Park are among the top sledding hills in Halifax.

Is sledding allowed at Citadel Hill?

Yes, Citadel Hill is one of the most popular sledding locations in Halifax and is widely used after major snowfalls.

What is the safest sledding hill for young children in Halifax?

Fort Needham Park, Gorsebrook Junior High, and DeWolf Park offer gentle slopes ideal for younger sledders.

What is the steepest sledding hill in Halifax?

Merv Sullivan Park (“The Pit”) is considered one of the steepest and fastest sledding hills in HRM.

Are there tobogganing hills near Dartmouth?

Yes, Brightwood Golf Course, Dartmouth Commons, and Shubie Park all offer great sledding options.

Enjoy Winter on the Best Sledding Hills in Halifax

Winter in Nova Scotia is best when you embrace it. Wrap up, grab the sleds, and get outside. It’s a brilliant way to make the most of the season — and earn that hot chocolate after.

If you ever have questions about life in Halifax, family-friendly activities, or moving to Nova Scotia, feel free to reach out. Always happy to help.

As always, please reach out if I can answer any of your questions about life in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I’m always happy to help.