Metroparks toboggan chutes kick-off 2012 winter season

STRONGSVILLE, Ohio -  Although the first real snowfall of the current winter season is still being forecast, those wishing to start sled riding can do so beginning Friday at the Metroparks Chalet Toboggan Chutes.

The dual refrigerated chutes, located in Strongsville, opened at noon on Black Friday with special opening day hours lasting until 10:30 p.m.

New at the attraction this year is a motorized lift that will tow rider's toboggans to the top of the 70-foot-high hill. That means patrons will no longer have to carry the bulky 35-pound sleds as they walk up more than 100 stairs.

According to the Metroparks, Chalet staff will load and unload the new toboggan lift - and sleds will be waiting for riders at a receiving deck near the top of the chutes.

The 700-foot-long icy chutes can operate with or without snow and are scheduled to remain open through mid-March.

The $10 adult daily admission fee includes unlimited toboggan rides. Children under 12 cost $8. One-time ride tickets are also available for $4.

The Chalet Toboggan Chutes are open Friday evenings, Saturdays and Sundays throughout the season - Thursday evening hours are added during the winter months.

For a complete schedule and more information click on the following links:   

   www.clemetparks.com/recreation/tobogganing/index.asp

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