Once the snow arrives, winter will get a little more enjoyable in Morenci! Thanks to a combination of ingenuity and community interest, families now have a brand-new sledding hill to experience at the north end of Wakefield Park. The hill was constructed at no cost to the city, made possible by Salenbien Construction, which utilized earth excavated during the Locust Street project. By upcycling the material, the team not only saved the expense of hauling it off-site but also created this additional recreational opportunity for the community. Gather your sleds, bundle up, and prepare to make fun winter memories right here in Morenci.
With winter fun comes the need for safety, and sledding, while exciting, can be hazardous without proper precautions. The City encourages all sledders to follow key safety practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Sledding should only take place in daylight. Always use sledding equipment that allows you to steer and stop, avoiding items like sliding carpets, inner tubes, or snow discs that are difficult to control. Choose sturdy sleds with secure handholds and no sharp edges. Before sledding, make sure the path is clear of obstacles and other people. On the way down, keep arms and legs tucked in, and always sled sitting up or kneeling, never headfirst or standing. If you fall or stop unexpectedly, move out of the way quickly to avoid collisions. If your sled won’t stop, roll off to the side. Walk back up the hill along the edges, away from active sledding paths. Parents should actively supervise children under 12 and ride with children under five. Dressing appropriately for the weather is just as important, including waterproof clothing, gloves, and sturdy footwear. A properly fitted bike or ski helmet is recommended to reduce the risk of head injuries.
To ensure everyone enjoys the sledding hill safely, please adhere to the following guidelines:
The sledding hill is open from dawn to dusk.
Use the hill at your own risk; sledding is a hazardous activity.
No supervision is provided. Parents are responsible for supervising their children.
Helmets and forward-facing sledding are strongly recommended.
Please exercise caution and be considerate to others.
Makeshift ramps, jumps, and motorized vehicles are strictly prohibited.
Users are responsible for assessing and determining if conditions are safe.
Sledding hill rules are posted on-site for all visitors to review. For any questions or additional information, please contact City Hall. Stay safe, have fun, and enjoy the newest addition to Morenci’s winter recreation!