Snow-obsessed Denverites know that Ruby Hill Park offers free concerts, ramps and trails for mountain bikers and BMXers and some of the best sledding in town. But for a couple of months each winter, skiing and snowboarding are options, too.
"Meh. Skiing and snowboarding are for rich people who want to spend all day on I-70," we grouse together.
Mostly.
But in Denver, you can ski and snowboard for free at Ruby Hill Rail Yard. And not just the hill's free -- but soon, the gear will be, too.
The rail yard opens Saturday, Feb. 4 and will run for as long as weather permits into March.
Starting Feb. 9, Denver Parks and Recreation will also be offering free rental equipment on Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The park offers a ton of obstacles and terrain, including rails, snow features, and boxes. There are objects for both beginners and advanced skiers to ride. And more will be coming mid-season.
There will be free events, including the CoreNation Rail Jam on Feb. 25 and demos by pro riders from the area. Events will be posted at the Parks and Rec website as they're organized.
If skiing isn't your thing, just wait till summer, when Ruby Hill Park's Levitt Pavilion opens up for 50 free concerts.
Ruby Hill Park, which has a fascinating, if not toxic, history, is next to South Platte River Dr. and West Florida Ave. The park is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
