Last year in the midst of a pandemic we saw the emergence of Florida’s first alpine park Snowcat Ridge. As reported last year, it was an experience that not only is unique to someone that lives in Florida, but also reminds you of what you missed from the winters when you lived up North.

Introduced to us was Tubing down the ice hills at an exhilarating speed from a 60 foot height 400 feet long. There were also shops, food, and the huge igloo. With the snow machines in the igloo one got to play in snow in Florida. I was able to tell that this would be a family destination both by witnessing the family I was with and others that were enjoying the park.

In 2021, Snowcat Ridge opened back up to the public with many more surprises. The number one being the ice ribbon. This is a ribbon of ice that circles back and forth in an area the size of an actual hockey rink. There is also an inner area for the young ones to learn how their feet works on ice. I spent an hour on the ice with a professional ice skater Anna Dawson. I for one, thought it was good. The professional bragged that this was one of the better pieces of ice (set up like this) that she has seen and was impressed with its skateability. I always recommend a place to skate. Anna definitely recommended it both for the beginner and the advanced to enjoy.

Also new to 2021 were VIP Eskimo Outpost. This is an area where you can rent a private igloo for you and your family to enjoy at Snowcat Ridge. The Outpost has an easy view of the Snowy Slopes and they each have their own fire pit to enjoy. I was really amazed at how nice it was in one of these. If my birthday was in the winter, I would have considered an outing for myself.

The Biergarten comes to Snowcat Ridge now. Choices of your favorite crafts as well as the popular domestics. What is playing in the snow without a nice large beer to enjoy? I took part in a pumkin brew and was very satisfied. It also helped my courage of getting on the ice for the first time in many many years. Please be careful in your drinking and skating.

Snowcat Ridge was a hit and highly recommended last year. With the improvements, it still stays at the top. If a fan of winter in any way, Snowcat Ridge is definitely a family destination without driving through the snow to get there. Advance tickets is always recommended as you never know when a time slot well sell out. Let me know how you enjoy it and I cannot wait until 2022!!!!

Snowcat Ridge is located at 27839 St. Joe Rd. Capacity is limited and the park is expected to be at capacity at times, so it is very recommended to get your tickets in advance at Snowcatridge.com. Tickets start at $26.95 (depending on day and time you go) and the park is open through March 27th (with some closed days). Do not foget to purchase your parking pass as there is a fee for parking.

David “Thrills” is an avid enthusiast of thrill parks and entertainment activities in the Tampa Bay Area. Be sure to follow me on instagram or twitter for live updates or email me at tampathrillme@gmail.com for any questions or concerns. The pictures are the property myself or Snowcat Ridge and used with permission.