Introduction: Sledding in Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf is not an alpine winter paradise, but when snow arrives the city reveals many great sledding hills. Local coverage and long-running guides consistently point to a handful of favourites across parks, woods and riverbanks. This overview collects those recurring recommendations and practical advice so you can find the best sledding spots, plan a family outing or enjoy a quick toboggan run close to the city.
Top 7 sledding spots in Düsseldorf
Below are seven sledding spots that appear most often in local round-ups. For each place you will find a short description, what makes it appealing and the main cautions to keep in mind. These are based on typical, repeated local reporting and neighbourhood experience.
1. Grafenberger Wald
Grafenberger Wald is frequently the first name people mention. Several slopes near the racecourse and along the forest edges toward Ludenberger Straße offer a good mix of length and moderate steepness. It’s often described as family-friendly with enough excitement for older kids and parents.
- Access: reachable by tram and short walk.
- Best for: families and moderate sledding runs.
- Watch out for: trees, narrow footpaths, and mixed use by walkers and dogs.
2. Deichhänge at Oberkassel (Rheinwiesen)
The Deich slopes along the Rheinwiesen in Oberkassel are popular for their open views and skyline backdrop. The inclines are usually neither very long nor very steep but are perfect for relaxed sledding and quick trips with good public transport links.
- Access: easy by tram and subway.
- Best for: scenic runs and quick family outings with a city view.
- Watch out for: the deich is part of flood protection—avoid damaging the grass cover and follow local restrictions.
3. Freizeitpark Ulenbergstraße (Bilk / Unterbilk)
This small urban park in Bilk/Unterbilk is a classic local tip for small children. Gentle slopes, short walks back up and some shelter from wind due to surrounding buildings make it a convenient, family-friendly spot when a light snow comes.
- Access: short walk from nearby stops.
- Best for: toddlers, preschoolers and families who don’t want to travel far.
- Watch out for: short runs that fill up quickly on busy days.
4. Nordpark (near Aquazoo and Messe)
The Nordpark’s raised areas and man-made hills provide wide, open sledding space. The broad layout reduces conflicts between groups and the area is well linked to public transport. Nearby cafés and facilities are a comfort on chilly days.
- Access: close to subway and Messe stops.
- Best for: groups who want plenty of space and easy facilities.
- Watch out for: windy, exposed conditions that can blow snow away quickly.
5. Aaper Wald and Aaper Höhen
Aaper Wald and its higher ground offer a more natural, quiet sledding experience reminiscent of nearby upland landscapes. The slopes give a pleasant sense of being in nature, which many locals appreciate.
- Access: some walking required from public transport stops.
- Best for: those who want a natural setting and longer walks in the snow.
- Watch out for: avoid cutting through young plantings and respect conservation areas.
6. Volksgarten (between Oberbilk and Friedrichstadt)
The Volksgarten offers terraced, short hills that are ideal for spontaneous sledding close to the city center and the main station. It’s great for a quick break from the daily routine when snow is fresh.
- Access: very central, easy for commuters and city dwellers.
- Best for: quick, casual sledding sessions.
- Watch out for: short slopes and rapid wear when many people arrive.
7. Schloss Benrath park edges and surrounding green areas
The areas around Schloss Benrath and nearby green spaces are often mentioned as picturesque sledding spots. Many families enjoy sledding with the castle as a backdrop, though the historic park itself is subject to preservation concerns and official restrictions.
- Access: tram and local bus connections make it reachable.
- Best for: scenic outings and photos combined with sledding.
- Watch out for: respect protected park areas and follow any local rules or signs.
Safety and etiquette
Safety, respect for others and care for green spaces are central to good sledding behaviour. Local reporting repeatedly emphasizes common-sense rules to keep the fun safe for everyone.
- Start early: fresh snow gives the best runs before slopes get icy or crowded.
- Use helmets for children and consider protective gear for steeper runs.
- Keep clear of trees, fences, drainage ditches and paths used by pedestrians and dogs.
- Respect protected areas, avoid young plantings and follow any posted signs or temporary closures.
- Yield to pedestrians and be careful near roads and waterways.
What to bring and how to prepare
Bringing the right gear makes a snowy outing more comfortable and safer. Even short trips benefit from a small checklist so you’re ready for weather changes and waiting times.
- Sled or toboggan in good condition (plastic sleds are common in the city).
- Warm layers, waterproof outerwear and gloves.
- Helmets for kids and optional for adults on steeper hills.
- Non-slip boots and a small thermos with a warm drink.
- A small first-aid kit and a phone for emergencies.
- Trash bag to take your litter home—leave spots as you found them.
Choosing the right hill and finding current updates
Which hill is best depends on who’s coming, how much snow there is and how far you want to travel. The seventh spot in many lists varies by neighbourhood and recent reports; popular alternatives include local slopes in Gerresheim, the Südpark or small hills near playgrounds in residential areas. Because snow in Düsseldorf is unpredictable, check up-to-date local reports and social media groups shortly before heading out. Common practical advice you’ll see repeated is: arrive early, pick a suitable slope for your group’s skill level, and sled responsibly.
Enjoy the snow, keep safety and nature in mind, and you’ll have a fun sledding day in Düsseldorf—whether you pick a long forest run or a short urban hill.
