Bundle up the family and head out into the great outdoors for an adventure that they won’t soon forget. There is no doubt that winters in the Midwest can be downright cold. However, there are still plenty of things to do outside like the Toboggan Run at Pokagon State Park. This is one thing that you should add to your winter bucket list every year.
Pokagon State Park
Located in the Northeast corner of the state, Pokagon State Park offers year around activities for the whole family. From hiking, biking, fishing, and more, there is something for everyone. You can make it a weekend getaway or a day trip depending on your location. For us in Fort Wayne, it was a short 50 minute drive to the park. Park entrance fees are $7 for in-state vehicles and $9 for out-of-state vehicles.
Toboggan Run
If you are missing the snow for sledding or looking for an outdoor thrill, then Pokagon State Park has the perfect activity for you. This refrigerated toboggan run was built in 1935 and about 90,000 visitors make their way down the run each season. It runs with or without snow. The start of the track begins at the top of a 30 ft tower with drops of 90ft over a quarter mile. The fastest speed on record is 42 mph. I didn’t clock our speed but I would bet that we reached over 30 mph on each run.
All three boys were a bit anxious before the first ride and even the littlest one was in tears. However after they rode down the first time, they couldn’t wait to do it again and again. We could complete about 3 rides per hour. Let me tell you, carrying that heavy toboggan uphill is no easy task. Thank goodness my hubby did most of the heavy lifting. Although, I was carrying a 45lb toddler up the hill too so not sure if the 30lb sled would of been easier.
Sled Selection
Toboggan sleds can be rented on a first come first serve basis for $13 per hour. Plus you will need your driver’s license or state ID as a deposit. There are two different types of sleds both able to hold up to 4 riders. Depending on how fast you want to go, they offer a 30lb and 60lb sled. Once we considered the walk from the bottom back to the top, we choose the 30lb option. The rental shop will occasionally run out of sleds but don’t worry. You simply take a number and wait for a sled to become available.
Capture the Fun
The perfect spot to document all the fun is on the bridge located towards the bottom of the track. You can take both photo and video of your friend’s or family’s reaction to going down the track. The facial expressions of our three year old riding up front of the sled was priceless. He quickly decided that sitting towards the back with mom or dad was more his style. Please note that videotaping and picture taking while on the ride is prohibited.
Keep Warm
Traveling at fast speeds combined with the cold temperatures can cause you to feel a little chilled. You and your family can warm up by the campfire next to the main walkway or relax in the Warming Center. The Warming Center is equipped with bathrooms, a concession stand, and tables to sit at and enjoy the view. While sipping on a warm cup of hot chocolate, you can watch your friends and family as they zoom down the track.
Hours of Operation
The toboggan run typically opens after Thanksgiving and operates through February. They offer extended hours around holidays and winter breaks.
Hours
- Friday 5:30 – 9 p.m.
- Saturday 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Be sure to check the website for up to date hours and dates of operation or call 260.833.2012.
Potawatomi Inn & Cabins
Since we live so close, we didn’t need to stay overnight. However, Potawatomi Inn is a great place to stay and enjoy the park. This historic structure has been renovated many times over the years and is located on the beautiful shores of Lake James. Some of the amenities include an indoor pool, fitness center, library, game room, and a cozy lounge with a fireplace. Plus there is a craft center for the kids to make souvenirs to take home.
Dinning Options
The Potawatomi Inn offers two dinning options. Courtyard Cafe is an option for quick counter service with items like pizza, subs, salads, and ice cream. The Historic Dining Room has a full menu to chose from plus a buffet offered at breakfast and select other times too. For our trip, we didn’t eat here since we left home after lunch and made it back by dinner.
Some Tips
- Get there when it opens
- Dress in layers – it is chilly riding down and you will get a work out walking back up carrying the toboggan
- Invest in hand warmers
- Go earlier in the season – weather doesn’t matter
- Plan a waiting activity sometimes all of them are rented
- If traveling with two adults, have one person meet you at the bottom and drive the toboggan to the top each time. That is if you have a big enough SUV or truck.
- There is no minimum age limit but kids must be able to abide by the rules to ride.
Tobogganing is definitely more of an adrenaline rush than sledding or tubing. It is worth the drive to visit and experience. I can’t believe my hubby and I have never been here either. Our boys keep talking about the fun that they had and can’t wait to go back next year.
Wow cuz this is very excellent job! Congrats and keep it up.