articles

Waltham Sledding: 3 Places You Can't Miss

We live in a hot spot for thrilling hills? WHO KNEW?!

By Maria Barrette, Macaroni KID Waltham+ February 1, 2024

Best Places To Go Sledding In Waltham

There may not be snow on the ground this week, but this article will get you ready and prepared for the next time the plows are back in the streets!


Forget the fancy ski resorts, Waltham's got your winter thrills covered with some epic sledding hills! From gentle slopes for tiny tots to heart-pounding drops for seasoned speed demons, this city's got something for everyone.

So grab your sled, layer up like a marshmallow, and get ready to giggle (or scream?) your way down these snowy slopes!

But with so many sledding options, where do you start? This list will compare the top three sledding hills in Waltham, helping you find the perfect spot for your next snowy adventure.

1. Prospect Hill Park:

  • Location: 314 Totten Pond Road, Waltham, MA
  • Ideal for: Experienced sledders and thrill-seekers
  • Features: Two separate summits, Big Prospect (485 feet) and Little Prospect (435 feet), offering stunning Boston views and challenging inclines.
  • Amenities: Parking lot, picnic tables, restrooms
  • Google Maps rating: 4.7 stars (491 reviews)

Prospect Hill Park reigns supreme for veterans of the snowy slopes. The dual peaks cater to a range of expertise, with Big Prospect promising heart-pounding descents and Little Prospect offering controlled thrills. (Please note, the steepness makes it more suitable for experienced sledders.)

2. Beaver Brook Reservation:

  • Location: 531 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham, MA
  • Ideal for: Families with young children and moderate sledders
  • Features: Multiple gentle slopes perfect for beginners and young children. Wooded areas provide scenic vistas and shelter from the wind.
  • Amenities: Parking lot, picnic tables, restrooms
  • Google Maps rating: 4.6 stars (634 reviews)

Embrace the serenity of Beaver Brook. Gentle slopes nestled amidst picturesque woodlands provide an ideal haven for families and novice sledders. Multiple access points in Waltham ensure convenient entry.

3. Cedarwood Playground:

  • Location: 25 Intervale Road, Waltham, MA
  • Ideal for: Young children and beginners
  • Features: Short, gentle slope perfect for introducing young children to the joys of sledding. Located adjacent to a playground for additional winter fun.
  • Amenities: Parking lot, playground equipment, restrooms
  • Google Maps rating: 4.6 stars (55 reviews)

Cedarwood Playground caters to the next generation of sledding enthusiasts. Its miniature hill provides a gentle introduction for toddlers and first-timers, allowing them to build their confidence. When sledding fatigue sets in, the nearby playground offers additional winter entertainment.

[Bonus Spot] Stonehurst (Robert Treat Paine Estate):

  • Location: 100 Robert Treat Paine Drive, Waltham, MA
  • Ideal for: Experienced sledders seeking historic charm
  • Features: Winding slope meandering through meticulously maintained gardens of the Paine Estate, offering a picturesque and challenging ride.
  • Amenities: Parking lot, restrooms
  • Google Maps rating: 4.5 stars (171 reviews)

Experience a local hit of history at Stonehurst. Its winding slope, nestled amidst the Paine Estate's gardens, provides a delightful but challenging adventure for experienced sledders.

Remember, safety is top priority regardless of your chosen hill. Dress warmly, wear waterproof gear, and always utilize helmets. Embrace the spirit of winter, gather family and friends, and embark on a sledding adventure through the unexpected landscapes of Waltham. 

Do you have a favorite Waltham sledding hill that wasn't mentioned above? Tell us about it on our Facebook page! Be safe, and more importantly, HAVE FUN!