There’s no doubt some relative newcomers to Dorchester— and probably some with young kids— for whom today’s blockbuster snowstorm has raised a sensible question: Where the heck can we take these young ones sledding tomorrow?
It’s been a few years since we’ve had the kind of dumping that’s in the forecast, so here’s the Dorchester Reporter’s run-down:
• Walsh Park on Washington Street is king of the hills— if you’re okay with a bit of speed.
The recently-renovated, city-owned park at the corner of Clancy Road and Washington Street near Lower Mills boasts a steep slope on the Clancy Road side that lends itself to a super-fast ride on a disc or inflatable. The climb back up the hill can be an adventure and a workout— and be sure those little ones have helmets on their noggins— but this park is the best bet for those looking for a bit of a thrill ride, particularly for the slightly older kids.
• Franklin Park— Lots of kids and parents swear by the hill near the first hole at Franklin Park’s golf course, which offers a long run and plenty of speed.
“Sledding on Savin Hill,” a 2010 lithograph by Savin Hill’s own resident artist James Hobin, graced the cover of the Dec. 19, 2013 Dorchester Reporter.
• Savin Hill Park— a classic Dorchester scene on the slope of what was first called ‘Rocky Hill’ by Puritan settlers, this might be the right call for folks in walking distance. The grade is more gradual than Walsh Park, but you’ll find it has plenty of coasting room for the little ones in particular.
• Dorchester Park— Adams Street side
Dot Park has two options for coasters:
The “bowl” or smaller ballfield by the Adams Street entrance has a couple of hill runs that are particularly good for beginners. It’s not a steep grade, but it works and it’s an easier climb back up, too.
The big ballfield in the rear— a bit of a challenging trek in when the snow is deep—offers a longer run from the hill at the park’s northern edge by the MBTA’s rail yard. After Walsh Park, this is our pick in this part of Dorchester.
Mother’s Rest Park— Four Corners
• Mother’s Rest Park in Dorchester’s Four Corners section— near Bowdoin-Gevena— has long been a destination for sledding fun for Dot kids in that Westville Street/Draper Street area. Just watch out for that retaining wall at the bottom!
• Blake House Hill — Pond Street/East Cottage/Columbia Road
What did we miss? Send us some thoughts on your local faves to letters@dotnews.com. Or chime in on Instagram, Facebook, or BlueSky Social.
