Grass Sledging

Grass sledging is sledging without the snow. You sit on a tough plastic sledge and slide down a grassy hill, steering with your body and slowing down with your feet. It's the same rush as a snowy day, only in summer. Because it needs nothing more than a slope and a sledge, it's a brilliant way for the whole family to have a go.

A grass sledge is shaped a lot like a snow sledge, with a smooth, hard base that slides over the grass. Some have runners or small rollers underneath to help them glide. Short, smooth grass gives the best ride, and a steeper slope means more speed.

The slope matters too. A gentle hill with a long, flat run-out at the bottom is ideal, because it gives everyone plenty of room to slow down safely.

Sit up straight with your feet at the front and hold on to the handles or the sides. To turn, lean the way you want to go, or gently drag one heel on that side. To slow down or stop, press both heels into the grass. Keep your hands and elbows inside the sledge while you're moving.

Your Activity Leader starts with a safety briefing and shows everyone where to go down and how to walk back up. Once you've got the hang of it, it's time for races.

Yes, it's simple, speedy and full of giggles. There are no tricky skills to learn first, so children can join in straight away and grown-ups can ride right alongside them. Racing each other down the hill brings out a bit of friendly competition, and the walk back up is a chance to plan your next winning line. Expect a few grass stains and lots of big smiles.

Closed-toe shoes are a must, as you'll use your heels to steer and stop. Trainers with good grip are perfect. Wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting grassy, and long trousers help protect your legs. Tie back long hair and leave anything loose or dangly in your tent.

You might also like Mountainboarding, Dune Buggies and Waterslide.

See all Camp Kindling activities