Darker days and chilly temperatures have you feeling gloomy? Layer up and beat the winter blues by immersing yourself in all that Cleveland has to offer—from ice skating to snow tubing and more, there’s plenty to keep you busy when it’s cold outside. In the weeks leading up to winter break, we’ll share our top winter activity picks on Thursdays.
There are dozens of winter activities to explore around Cleveland, but flying 40 miles per hour down a toboggan chute might be the most exhilarating. If you’re ready to experience this icy thrill, head to The Chalet in Mill Stream Run Reservation at Cleveland MetroParks!
Located in Strongsville and now open for the season, this attraction boasts two 700-foot refrigerated ice chutes that operate with or without snow through early March (weather permitting). You need only bring yourself, a pair of gloves (gloves or mittens that cover your fingertips are required—and fingerless gloves don’t count), and tickets that you reserve in advance.
Once you arrive, you’ll check in, climb up some stairs to the top of the chute and load yourself and/or up to three friends on the narrow sled and brace yourself for takeoff. You can ride as many times as you’d like until The Chalet closes for the day—but be prepared for long lines during the weekend.
Tobogganing isn’t for everyone, though. You have to be at least 42 inches tall and, since it’s a high-speed physical thrill ride, it’s a bit rough and physically jarring. Those who have back problems, respiratory difficulties, heart troubles, have had a recent surgery or are pregnant are not advised to ride.
There’s plenty of areas to watch from if you can’t participate—and you can stay nice and warm by the wood burning outdoor fireplace or grab some refreshments at the concession stand. There are also picnic tables and two first-come, first-served charcoal grills available.
Ready to ride? Adults can purchase tickets for $13 and tickets for children 11 and younger are $11. Learn more about the safety and rules of the chute, check out their operating hours and book your tickets on The Chalet’s website.