Then and Now: Hill 17 Sledding & Peninsula State Park Ski Jump

Peninsula State Park is one of Door County’s best winter wonderlands, so it’s probably no surprise that it has some of the best places to go sledding in Wisconsin. With 16 miles of cross-country ski trails, 17 miles of snowmobiling trails, snowshoeing trails and ice fishing, the state park is just as popular with locals and visitors when the weather gets cold.

However, the state park has a downhill history that sets it apart from anywhere else in Wisconsin. In the 1900s, Peninsula State Park had a famous ski jump and a toboggan run near the present-day Nature Center. Today, the ski jump and toboggan run are now Hill 17, a famous hole on the Peninsula State Park Golf Course that draws sledders of all ages every time snow falls. 

Hill 17: The Best Place to Go Sledding in Door County

When visiting the state park in the summer, it is hard to imagine that a close-cropped fairway so pristinely green on its way to the 17th hole of one of the county’s most popular golf courses could transform so dramatically into a favorite winter activity.

But when the snow falls on the peninsula, the 17th hole of the Peninsula State Park golf course in Ephraim transforms into a downhill runway. As the best place to sled in Wisconsin, laughter fills the air as sleds zoom downhill, and grinning kids (and adults!) claim it as one of the best sledding spots in all of Wisconsin. 

Why Hill 17 is the Greatest Place for Sledding in WI

Hole 17 at Peninsula State Park isn’t just for golfers. In the winter, this par three transforms into Hill 17. Once at the top of the park’s towering slope, you’ll discover a breathtaking view of Eagle Harbor before the thrilling sled downhill, making the uphill hike well worth the effort. Sledding down Hill 17 combines heart-pounding fun with the beauty of Door County’s landscape, creating an unforgettable winter experience at Wisconsin’s ultimate sledding destination. Many locals and visitors fondly recall their rides down Hill 17, describing the challenge of the climb and the exhilaration of the descent.

Hill 17 remains a childhood thrill for all looking to spend a snowy winter day in one of the state’s most treasured state parks.

Sledding Tips for Hill 17 in Peninsula State Park

Before you grab your sled and head to Hill 17, it’s worth knowing that this iconic sledding spot is as thrilling as it is challenging. With the hill’s steep incline during cold weather, a little preparation can make your visit to Peninsula State Park safer, more comfortable, and even more fun. From bundling up for the cold to choosing the right sled, these tips will help you make the most of your adventure in Peninsula State Park while keeping everyone safe and ready for the ride of their lives. 

Dress for cold temperatures

Before hitting the Peninsula State Park’s famous hill, check the weather and layer up to stay warm. Waterproof outerwear, gloves, and hats are a must, and snow pants are encouraged for a comfortable day outdoors. Bring warm, dry clothes to change into after sledding.

Adults must supervise children

Hill 17’s steepness is no joke. The Department of Natural Resources notes, “The hill is steep,” which might be the understatement for one of Wisconsin’s largest sledding hills. Adults must keep a watchful eye on children to ensure everyone stays safe while having fun at Peninsula State Park.

Bring the right kind of sleds

Choosing your sled is half the fun. While toboggans are prohibited at Hill 17 within the state park, you still have many options, from saucers and inner tubes to one-person, two-person, or family-sized sleds. Not to mention all the ways to ride: backward or forwards on your knees, belly, or bum!

Check snow conditions

Not all snow is sled-friendly, so check the Door County Snow Report before you head out. Depending on the type of snowfall, certain winter activities at Peninsula State Park may be better suited for the day. Even if there’s not enough snow for sledding, there are lots more ways to play by snow types.

History of Hill 17 in Peninsula State Park

In the 1930s, with the help of Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s New Deal army of young men in the Civilian Conservation Corps, the state park and local organizations refurbished dilapidated wood into a ski hill that was the focal point of many winter Sundays for locals.

The Peninsula State Park Ski Jump & Toboggan Run

The state park’s Nature Center, which marks the location of the jump today, was first built in 1939 as a warming house for those going up and flying down the bluffs through the winter. There are few alive who still remember the ski jump and toboggan run, which were both abandoned in the 1940s.

Still, a clipping from the Door County Advocate during the Cherryland Winter Carnival at the state park describes its importance to locals during the harrowing time of World War II.

“K.O. Jacobson, Door County’s expert ski jumper who represents the club at the big-time meets all over the Middle-West, came flying through the air to land and ride out through the big “V” for Victory. The band struck up the ‘Star Spangled Banner.’ It was a scene of sheer beauty and especially inspiring at this particular time.”

1943: The Ending of the Ski Jump

The last event at the park’s “Big Slide” was held in 1943, and the ski jump was dismantled shortly after the war ended. While it falls squarely under the reminiscent category of Things We Lost, Hill 17, on the other side of the state park, brings joy to downhill winter enthusiasts today.

More Popular Places to Go Sledding in Door County

If Peninsula State Park’s Hill 17 has you craving more fun sledding adventures, you’re in luck — Door County has more places to feed your need for downhill speed. From gentle slopes perfect for little ones to thrilling runs for the daredevils in your crew, there’s no shortage of sledding hills to explore. 

Sledding Hill at Sister Bay Sports Complex

Created as part of the Sister Bay Beach Project, the sledding hill at Sister Bay Sports Complex is a shining example of turning local resources into community fun. The hill was created using approximately 8,000 cubic yards of excavated cobblestone. The eco-friendly sledding hill in Sister Bay opens as soon as enough snow has fallen to cover its surface and allow for the installation of snow fencing, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Keep an eye out for the “Open” flag at the top of the hill, which signals that the sledding season is officially underway. 

Big Hill Park in Sturgeon Bay (Georgia St. Hill)

Located at Big Hill Park, the Georgia St. Hill, located between Georgia St. and 12th Ave. in Sturgeon Bay, is perfect for thrill seekers. The popular one-person-at-a-time-hill is tree-lined and super fast. Be prepared; you might get some air as you zip to the bottom.

Incinerator Hill in Sturgeon Bay

Incinerator Hill is another popular place to sled and toboggan in Sturgeon Bay. The free and fun bunny hill is located next to the dog park off County Road U and Division Road. Not only can you sled, but this hill is also great for practicing skiing and snowboarding.