Swiss Family Bobbin'

Unlike some winter resort activities that require heaps of expensive equipment, all that’s needed for a new sport with plenty of local aficionados is a molded piece of plastic the size of a cafeteria tray called a Swiss Bob. Here’s the lowdown.

What: Essentially sledding for grown-ups, Swiss Bobbing has become suddenly popular with many Parkites for its simple, childlike pleasure. The small plastic sleds fit into most daypacks, transforming a winter hike into a part aerobic/part adrenaline-charged adventure. Kathy Kahn, who has been hiking Park City’s trails since the 1970s, says, “Swiss Bobbing makes a steep and slippery downhill so much fun—and actually less dangerous than trying to walk down.”

Where: The best trail in town to spot Swiss Bobbers is the steep Iron Mountain Trail, with its boot-packed base and banked turns that create a luge-like experience. Iron Mountain Trail climbs steeply through hushed stands of aspen and spruce to a sharp ridge lookout with sweeping views of Thaynes Canyon and Park City below. While it takes about 45 minutes of hiking to reach the lookout, descent via Swiss Bob is 10 minutes of ear-to-ear grins. Please respect private property by staying on the trail and only parking in designated spots.

How: Before attempting the steeps, it’s best to master steering and speed control on low-grade, open pitches. The bottom of the Iron Mountain Trail offers a meadow that’s ideal for practicing. Sit squarely on the Swiss Bob and grasp the handles, with knees bent and feet resting lightly on the snow. To stop, lean the upper body slightly forward.

Why: An ideal reward for a healthy, uphill workout, Swiss Bobbing is also just plain fun. “It reminds me of being a kid again,” Kahn says. “You go flying down the mountain and back into childhood.”

Find Swiss Bob sleds in Park City at Jans Mountain Outfitters (1600 Park Ave, 435.649.4949, jans.com) for about $50 each.