For those select days during winter when you can engage in the joy of sledding, it's important to be ready. Have your winter gear and hot chocolate at hand, and know your way to these wonderful locations. Before you head out, ensure the trails are open and there's enough snow for an enjoyable afternoon. State park fees are suspended during winter and restart at the end of March.
BETHPAGE STATE PARK
Location: 99 Quaker Meetinghouse Rd., Farmingdale
The unique factor about sledding at Bethpage is that you're sliding down in the same area where renowned golfers have played. While the Black Course, known for Tiger Woods' 2002 U.S. Open win, isn't available for sledding, you can use the 460-yard fairway of the Red course or the historic Green course. Both start from behind the clubhouse. Note: No snow tubes, inner tubes, discs, or saucers are allowed.
Contact: 516-249-0700, parks.ny.gov
CEDAR CREEK PARK
Location: 3340 Merrick Rd., Seaford
The sledding hills at Cedar Creek Park are conveniently located next to the parking areas at the park's southern end. The hills, surrounded by tall trees, provide a moderate sledding experience, with one hill offering a roller-coaster like ride.
Contact: 516-571-7470, nassaucountyny.gov/2792/Cedar-Creek-Park
HEMPSTEAD LAKE STATE PARK
Location: 1000 Lake Dr., West Hempstead, Southern State Parkway Exit 18 (Eagle Avenue)
The hill at Hempstead Lake State Park is shorter and less steep, but it offers a scenic ride ending with a view of the man-made McDonald Pond. It's ideal for families with young children. Park in Field 3 for easy access to the sledding area. A safety fence at the bottom of the slope ensures sledders won't end up in the pond.
Contact: 516-766-1029, parks.ny.gov
NEWBRIDGE ROAD PARK
Location: 2600 Newbridge Rd., Bellmore
The single hill at Newbridge Road Park is short and steep, offering a thrilling sledding experience. The hill's round shape allows sledders to slide down in any direction, adding to the fun.
Contact: 516-783-2500
WILDWOOD STATE PARK
Location: 790 Hulse Landing Rd., north of Sound Avenue, Wading River
For a more natural sledding experience, Wildwood State Park is an ideal choice. It offers the opportunity to sled next to a hardwood forest without having to travel far. The park doesn't have a specific sledding area, which gives you the freedom to pick any hill across its 769 acres. Many sledders prefer the campgrounds or the roadways, which are closed to campers and vehicles during winter.
Contact: 631-929-4314, parks.ny.gov
Remember, it's always a good idea to call ahead to make sure the parks are open and have enough snow for sledding. Enjoy the winter fun!