Popular Blowing Rock sledding site closed due to unsafe conditions

A popular sledding site in the High Country has been closed due to unsafe conditions. 

The area is known as “Sled Hill,” located off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock.

The site at Sandy Flat Gap has been growing as an unofficial destination for sledding, tubing, skiing, and snowboarding.

But Blue Ridge Parkway officials say they can no longer allow winter recreation in the area. Parkway Superintendent Tracy Swartout released a statement saying the site was not designed for high levels of pedestrian use and roadside parking. She notes that poor sightlines and increased traffic have led to multiple near misses between passing vehicles and pedestrians.

In addition to closing the hill, parking will be prohibited along portions of nearby roads. Park staff are installing fencing and signage, and citations could be issued to those who don’t comply with the closure order.