The Hoito has a Second Home at Goods (And It Brought the Pancakes)
Amanda Bay
March 11, 2026
The sun is shining, the snow is fresh, and it’s not -40°, so it feels like we all collectively won the lottery. It’s the perfect winter day in TBay, so obviously we’re going sledding!
There is absolutely nothing — and I mean nothing — like the chaotic joy of zipping down a hill after fresh snowfall (or anytime, really). The wind in your face, uncontrollable giggling and that split second where you’re like, “I have SOME control,” followed immediately by… absolutely none. If you think sledding is just for kids? Think again.
Sledding (tobogganing) is basically a winter rite of passage here. It’s part of Thunder Bay winter life, and you truly haven’t lived until you’ve bombed a hill, wiped out dramatically, and walked back up pretending that was “on purpose.”
It’s chaotic, nostalgic and basically cardio disguised as fun (because that hike back up? Humbling). Our trusted steeds? Saucers, foam sliders, or the elite five-foot wooden toboggan you just dragged out of the garage like a winter relic. But before you channel your inner winter warrior, a few quick tips:
Now the real mission? Finding the perfect hill. These locations are often passed down like sacred knowledge between neighbourhood kids for generations…it’s basically community lore. Whether you’re after something a little more family-friendly or looking for full adrenaline, here are couple of the most popular spots:
Balsam Pit
The undisputed legend. It’s a long massive hill with straight runs that have plenty of space to carve your own chaos. This spot promises you’ll go fast. Possibly too fast.
Centennial Park
A trek up? Yes. Worth it? Also yes. The dedicated hill here is huge. Go halfway for a chill ride or hike to the top if you’re trying to unlock an inner dare devil moment. Spacious, scenic, and great for families. Just a heads up, kids love building jumps you might not see coming, which makes for a thrilling surprise (and potential air… and we all know, what goes up…must come down).
Chapples
Right when you drive in, look to the right. It’s an easy access option that still delivers solid thrills. Perfect for a quick sled session when the sun decides to bless us.
Hillcrest Park
Known for its iconic lookout views and equally iconic sled runs. But listen carefully…if you don’t know how to stop, you may discover new neighbourhood landscaping (through a fence). Not for the faint of heart. Advanced sledders only.
Prospect Avenue Hill
A bit of a low-key gem for the weekend. This little secret spot tucked into the neighbourhood, has multiple runs, varying slopes, and ideal for younger kids or anyone who prefers “controlled fun” over “why did I agree to this.”
Sledding is the ultimate winter day activity with minimal equipment and maximum serotonin. When you’re finally done, cheeks frozen, legs burning, laughing uncontrollably, there really is only one correct next move: Hot chocolate.
Swing by Sweet North Bakery for a classic cocoa (and maybe a soft pretzel because you absolutely earned it). It just feels so good to wrap your frozen fingers around a warm cup after a full day of sled runs. So dust off that old family toboggan and set your ego aside, because when it’s not -40° and the snow is fresh in Thunder Bay…we ride.
What’s your go-to toboggan hill in TBay?
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CEDC © 2025. All rights reserved.