Sledding hills in Helsinki
Helsinki has lots of great sledding hills. Just about every park has some kind of slope, big or small, that you can sled down. Listed below are some of the most popular sledding hills in the city! Only the Paloheinä sledding hill is maintained by the City of Helsinki, others have no maintenance or lighting provided by the city.
Kaivopuisto
The oldest and best-known park in Helsinki, Kaivopuisto Park, can be found on the southern tip of the main peninsula and is really easy to get to. In the middle of the park is a large hill with a cliff on one side and a long, gentle slope on the other that is perfect for sledding. From the top of the hill, you can admire the beautiful view to the sea. Between Kaivopuisto and the Market Square there is another large hill, Observatory Hill (Tähtitorninmäki), which is also great for sledding. Afterwards you can warm up at the nearby Löyly sauna complex or enjoy a hot cocoa at the iconic Café Ursula.
Paloheinä
If you’re looking for even more speed and thrills, head to the sledding hill behind the ice rink at the Paloheinä recreational centre. Paloheinä is also popular for its groomed cross-country ski trails, and there is a café where you can warm up and change clothes.
Malminkartano
The landfill hill at Malminkartano is popular among real sledding enthusiasts and locals alike. From the top of the hill you can enjoy beautiful views and spot Helsinki’s famous landmarks. There are lots of cafés and restaurants by the Malminkartano station.
Sinebrychoff Park
The Sinebrychoff park at the western end of Bulevardi has steep hills that are great for sledding. When you get hungry you can cross the road to the Hietalahti Market Hall, where you will find lots of vendors selling a wide variety of delicious food.
Topelius Park
Topelius park in the Taka-Töölö district is an ideal destination for families with kids. There is a gentle slope that young children can climb up by themselves. At the upper end of the park is the inviting Töölö Library, and down by the waterfront you can warm up at the legendary Café Regatta.
Kaisaniemi Park
Situated behind the Central Railway Station and National Theatre in the city centre, Kaisaniemi Park is a popular place in wintertime for sledding. The main hill offers a nice variety of gradients, from gentle slopes to more challenging runs!
Alppipuisto
Not far from Linnanmäki Amusement Park in the Alppila district is another large park where you can sled. The Alppipuisto park is also easy to get to by tram (1 or 3).
Taivaskallio
Overlooking the idyllic wooden district of Puu-Käpylä, Taivaskallio is one of the highest points in Helsinki. Situated between Pohjolankatu, Panuntie, the railway tracks and Käpyläntie and reaching a height of almost 60 metres, Taivaskallio is a popular hill for sledding. The local Lions Club even organises a traditional sledding event there during the Shrovetide holidays, only for the ferocious!