Did you know the joys of sledding can be enjoyed in summer as well as winter? Sledding is often synonymous with hearty laughter shared with family or friends, but have you ever tried the pleasures of a summer sled? That’s what the rail sled offers, an activity available in several family-friendly mountain resorts. As a bonus, the rail sled is a very safe activity thanks to seat belts, an anti-derailment system and anti-collision sensors that detect when you’re approaching another sled…
If you’re wondering where to try summer rail sledding, here are 7 destinations to hop on these 4-season sleds and race down the track (sometimes reaching speeds of 45 km/h)!
Alpe d’Huez: combine rail sledding and virtual reality
Hop on a 2-seater sled for thrills, with accelerations, jumps, waves and chicanes! Dive into a mountain world with a virtual reality headset for an unforgettable immersive experience! A sensational adventure to share as a duo!
Note that children under 6 or under 1.35 m must be accompanied by an adult to enjoy this experience. Plus, if you’re a Passe Montagne subscriber, you’ll even get a 21% discount on the Alpe d’Huez rail sled! So get ready for moments of fun and excitement for the whole family.
Les Saisies: a “Space Mountain” feel in the heart of the Beaufortain pastures
Offer your children a thrilling alternative: an experience similar to Space Mountain, but in the heart of the real mountains! Head to Les Saisies to discover the mountain version of “Space Mountain.” Over 800 metres of descent, you’ll enjoy 540° spins and breathtaking landscapes 8 metres above the ground. Luckily, for those who prefer a quieter pace, a braking system lets you safely manage your speed!
Please note that children under 8 or under 1.35 m must be accompanied. And if you’re a Passe Montagne member, you’ll even get an 8% discount on the Les Saisies rail sled! So get ready for thrills and memorable family moments.
Les Ménuires: challenge Boukty, the resort mascot
Hop aboard the Speed Mountain, a 1,000-metre rail sled that promises plenty of thrills with banked turns and breathtaking descents. Whether you’re a child or an adult, this single sled lets you challenge Boukty, the resort mascot, for a thrilling adventure.
Open from age 5 for accompanied children (minimum height: 1.10 m) and solo from 1.40 m, the Speed Mountain promises unforgettable moments for the whole family. So get ready for a unique experience in the heart of the mountains with this sensational sled!
Portes du Mont-Blanc: a rail sled open in summer, winter, and even at night!
You may already have tried the rail sled, but have you tried the rail sled by night? It’s one of the experiences on offer at Portes du Mont-Blanc. As night falls, lights and music create an immersive, unforgettable atmosphere. Hop on, alone or with someone, and enjoy a great adrenaline rush through the turns, tunnels and high-speed descents.
Are you a Passe Montagne subscriber? Then you can enjoy 10% off on the Portes du Mont-Blanc rail sled.
Val d’Allos: a thrilling loop of nearly 1 km
Set in the heart of the Mercantour National Park, Val d’Allos offers over 1,000 km of marked trails and a flagship activity: the rail sled. The Verdon Express Sled offers a loop of nearly 1 km with hairpin bends, accelerations and aerial spins. For accompanied children aged 3 and over, and solo from age 8. Fun guaranteed!
Les Orres: 710 m of rail with a view over Lac de Serre-Ponçon
With the sled named L’Orrian Express, get ready to enjoy 710 metres of descent in the front row, with breathtaking views over the splendid Lac de Serre-Ponçon. A wild ride awaits with six hairpin bends, three wave sections, three 360-degree spins and even two “jumps” (though the wheels always stay on the rails). A thrilling experience awaits around every turn — so get ready for a memorable adventure in the heart of nature.
Les 7 Laux: a splendid forest course facing the Belledonne landscapes
Ski resorts do their best to be a paradise for snow lovers, and Les 7 Laux is no exception. This iconic resort of the Belledonne massif, near Grenoble, offers a unique experience all year round. Be tempted by Wiz Luge, a bobsleigh-style summer sled that propels you down 700 metres of rail descent. The 12 turns, including 7 hairpins, make this course delightfully winding! Tucked away at Le Pleynet, Wiz Luge will give you an unforgettable experience through the forest and the magnificent landscapes of Belledonne.
Good news: Wiz Luge is open to children from age 3 when accompanied, or from age 8 to ride solo. So get ready to share moments of family fun in the heart of this beautiful mountain region.
