50 Nebraskaland • January-February 2023
MIXED BAG
Several years ago, I made a decision regarding my Nebraska
winters. If I didn't find something to tide me over, freezing
temperatures were going to destroy me. Merely sledding with
the kids just wasn't going to work.
Put a snowboard in my hand, however, and I started
watching the weather forecast for "fresh powder," electing
to take my chances upright when my young kids were sitting
their way down the hill. And there were hills aplenty.
Try these dedicated toboggan runs throughout the state to
add a little variety to your sledding trips:
Eugene T. Mahoney – The dedicated toboggan hill lies on
the east side of the Activity Center, featuring multiple runs
and even smaller entry points for younger or less experienced
riders.
Ponca State Park – Ponca's sled hill can be seen before the
turn into the Scout Hill Loop portion of the park.
Chadron State Park – The designated sled hill lies next to
the archery range on the west side of the park.
These are not our only parks worthy of carving out your
own slopes, as Fort Robinson and Niobrara state parks and
Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area have enough rolling hills
to create your own snowboarding, and sledding, destinations
— as long as you don't mind the walk back up the hill at any
of these winter getaways.
SNOWBOARDING PARKS
By Jeff Kurrus
The sledding hill at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park also makes for a great snowboarding run. JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
Betsy Mayfi eld, of Omaha, snowboarding down a snow hill at
Ponca State Park. JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
