Speed Sledding down a snowy mountain is one of my favorite winter activities, but you must be careful. I've been sledding down mountain trails for years now and there are some safety precautions that really need to be used.
We had a group go up a few years ago, we hiked up 5 miles into a snowy steep mountain trail, it was wet and slippery, but we were stoked to get started on our downward speed sledding.
One of the sledder's were flying down the mountain, but couldn't turn a corner fast enough and went off the edge of a cliff falling about 30 feet into some trees below. She sliced up her arm, got knocked around with bruises and scratches, but gratefully she lived through the experience. It could have been much worse and even life threatening. She could have avoided that fall and the major injuries by following a few safety tips.
To safely speed sled down snowy mountain trails, you should follow these steps:
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Make sure you have the right equipment, including a sled designed for high-speed downhill travel, a helmet, and other protective gear. A helmet is perfect, but I use a thick beanie. Thick layered gloves, such as a thinner pair of gloves that fit tight with a think warm pair on the outside. Warm wool socks, 2 pair. Thermals under pants with a thick over the pants layer to put on when you get to the top. (Don't wear all these layers when you're hiking, if you start sweating while hiking, be sure to stop and take off layers. You do NOT want to be sweating in cold weather.)
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Choose a sledding trail that is appropriate for your skill level and experience. Avoid trails that are too steep or have obstacles or corners that could be dangerous at high speeds. Research the hiking trails around you, try a few smaller ones first until you can easily steer your sled.
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Start slowly and cautiously, and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the trail and your sled.
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Keep your body in a low, streamlined position, and use your legs and arms to control your speed and direction.
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Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and avoid sledding near other people or in areas with steep drops, cliffs or other hazards.
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If you lose control of your sled, try to steer it back on course, but if you can't jump off the sled and walk away from a potentially fatal accident.
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Always sled with a buddy or a group, and make sure someone knows where you are going and when you plan to return.
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Be prepared for the cold weather, and dress appropriately in layers to stay warm. Bring a backpack with extra layers and emergency supplies with a first aid kit. Make sure your phone is fully charged.
It's difficult to find the right speed sled, most retail stores don't sell the correct type of sled for these types of trails and the few that I found weren't strong and would be a hazard in a strong slope. You'll probably need to find your snow sled online.
Sledding down a mountain is rewarding, exhilarating and beyond fun!
