Five Great ... Frotn Range Parks

BOULDER Great for younger kids, Harlow Platts offers a quick beginning and a long run out. From Broadway, turn west on Grinnell Ave., then left onto Knox Dr. (park along the sidewalk before Fairview High School); City of Boulder Parks and Recreation, 303/413-7200.

Harlow Platts Park.

Scott Carpenter Park. This hill may be on the short side, but it's perfect for young kids and offers expansive views of the Flatirons from the top. One block south of 30th St. at Arapahoe Ave. (park at Scott Carpenter Swimming Pool); City of Boulder Parks and Recreation, 303/413-7200.

DENVER Denver's classic sledding hill is in the middle of the park, underneath the giant play set. Call for hours. S. Platte River Dr. at W. Florida Ave. (park in the lot on W. Florida); Denver Parks and Recreation Department, 720/913-0696. GOLDEN This lengthy, uncrowded hill sits just before the park's visitor center. $5 fee per vehicle. On Golden Gate Canyon Rd., 13 miles west of State 93 (park at visitor center); 303/582-3707.

Ruby Hill Park.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park.

LITTLETON The longest hill in this group. Limited parking is its only drawback. Ken Caryl Ave. at Continental Divide Rd. (park in subdivision and cross Ken Caryl at the stoplight); Foothills Park and Recreation District, 303/409-2612.―SCOTT SCHUMAKER

Sledding Hill Park.