Five Rivers MetroParks offers lots of ways to enjoy the snow

More snow is on the way, but it won’t last long so it’s time to enjoy it while it lasts. One way to get in some winter fun: Visit a Five Rivers MetroPark! Many of the parks are ideal for family fun in the snow. 

Ice Skating 

While one can ice skate at RiverScape MetroPark (237 E. Monument Ave., Dayton) all winter long, there’s something special about doing this activity while there’s snow on the ground. The MetroParks Ice Rink is open 2:30-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 2:30-10 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission fee is $7 each day, with children 3 and under free with an adult. Skate rentals are $3. 

Sledding 

Five Rivers MetroParks has designated hills at three of its parks as perfect for sledding. Englewood MetroPark (100 E. National Road, Vandalia) has a sledding hill located along the dam in the West Park. Germantown MetroPark (6206 Boomershine Road, Germantown) has what Five Rivers MetroParks’ says may be the best sledding hill in the park system. And Taylorsville MetroPark (1200 Brown School Road, Vandalia) is home to a 30-degree hills with few bumps and no obstacles.  

Skiing 

Yes, you can go cross-country skiing in Dayton. Five Rivers MetroParks recommends people use paved trails and the flatter hiking trails after a fresh snow. Possum Creek MetroPark (4970 Frytown Road, Dayton) and Carriage Hill MetroPark (7800 E. Shull Road, Dayton) are both popular locations for this activity.