Feel the rush on Des Moines’ largest synthetic ski hill at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park. Two hours on the slick, mist-cooled Snowflex surface offers consistent speed for skiers and snowboarders of all ages.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic balance and stamina recommended for straight runs and turns
Wildlife
History
Sleepy Hollow Sports Park has long provided multi-use outdoor recreation for Polk County residents with an emphasis on accessible, family-friendly facilities.
Conservation
The park incorporates water recycling systems for the Snowflex hill, reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable recreation in urban Des Moines.
Sleepy Hollow Sports Park
Feel the rush on Des Moines’ largest synthetic ski hill at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park. Two hours on the slick, mist-cooled Snowflex surface offers consistent speed for skiers and snowboarders of all ages.
Sleepy Hollow Sports Park in Des Moines, Iowa, is an outdoor recreation facility specializing in downhill tubing, skiing, and snowboarding on a synthetic Snowflex surface.
The park features a 50,000 sq. ft. sliding hill and a 600 ft. long Snowflex run that offers two-hour session admissions for visitors. A misting system is used on the tubing lanes and Snowflex surface to increase speed and maintain consistent conditions. Sleepy Hollow provides tubing admissions with birthday party packages and group options, plus skiing and snowboarding admissions suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities. Rental equipment and beginner instruction may be available on-site; visitors are encouraged to check current offerings before arrival.
The facility emphasizes outdoor family recreation and repeatable, bookable session times to manage slope capacity. Located near Des Moines, Sleepy Hollow attracts local families, youth groups, and visiting guests seeking accessible winter-style activities without natural snow. Staff oversee lift and lane operations, safety procedures, and session scheduling during operating hours. The park's distinctive Snowflex surface and misting technology differentiate its offerings from traditional snow resorts by supporting year-round or extended-season activities where applicable. Parking and onsite amenities are provided; specifics vary by season and should be confirmed directly with the park. Sleepy Hollow partners with local event planners for group bookings and birthday celebrations, and publishes session lengths, pricing, and safety guidelines on its official channels to help guests plan visits.
Location
Des Moines, IA
Conveniently located near Des Moines
Hill Size
50,000 sq ft
Large outdoor tubing area
Session Length
2 hours
Timed admissions for each visit
Party Options
Birthday packages
Group and celebration bookings available
Reserve two-hour sessions for tubing, skiing, or snowboarding and secure birthday or group packages—check availability and session times online.
Bring Your Own Gear
Sleepy Hollow requires all visitors to bring their own skis or snowboards for use on the Snowflex surface.
Dress for Mist and Abrasion
Wear long sleeves and pants to protect against carpet burn from the synthetic surface and dampness from the mist cooling system.
Closed-Toe Shoes Required
All participants must wear closed-toe shoes for safety while on the hill.
Age and Weight Guidelines
No minimum or maximum age limits, but weight must be under 375 lbs and pregnant visitors cannot use Snowflex Hill.
Ski or Snowboard
Necessary for participation on the Snowflex hill; must be brought by guests.
Helmet
Recommended for safety on fast, hard surfaces.
Protective Clothing
Long pants and sleeves protect against abrasion from the synthetic surface and moisture from the mist.
Closed-Toe Athletic Shoes
Required footwear for stability and safety on the hill.