We’re already counting down the days ’til Christmas, and if you’re unable to book a ski trip to the snow-covered Alps this year, you can still live out your winter dreams in Florida! Over in Dade City, up in the Tampa Bay area, is where you’ll find the state’s first and only alpine snow park: Snowcat Ridge. And let’s be real, since snow is basically an impossible phenomenon here, don’t let a little road trip stop you from going full throttle into tubing down snowy slopes and ice skating outdoors!
Making its return for the season on November 21st, Snowcat Ridge is loaded with a large tubing hill, enchanting Alpine Village, festively-decorated igloos and snow much more that you simply cannot miss.
Snow tubing, real snow and more attractions
The unique snow park is known to offer a giant snow dome where the impossible happens: playing in actual snow! Called the Arctic Igloo, this enclosed “snow globe” keeps the temperature at around 30 degrees, perfect for making snow angels, throwing around snowballs and building snowmen to your heart’s content. And for the park’s youngest guests, the igloo features a special Bunny Slope just for them!
The main event is, of course, a massive 60-foot tall and 400-foot long snow tubing hill known as Snowy Slopes. Complete with nightly music and a light show that can be viewed throughout the park, you can choose from single, tandem or large family-style tubes for your exhilarating ride! Best of all, a pair of conveyor lifts will whisk you and your snow tube to the very top of the slope in no time.
Back on ground, you can lace up your skates for the Crystal Ribbon, an outdoor ice skating ribbon and beginner oval rink. Guests can bring their own skates or rent them there as they glide under the sunny skies by day and beneath the dazzling light show by night — the perfect way to finish off your day!
Alpine Village and private igloos
Once you’re ready to kick back with some relaxing après-ski vibes, there are cozy dining and drinking options at Snowcat’s Alpine Village. It features a variety of vendors serving hot and cold beverages, including hot chocolate and beer, plus tasty bites. They also have folks selling crafts and handmade gifts all throughout the season!
Those looking to host a truly unforgettable winter party can opt for private igloos at the Eskimo Outpost, fit for up to 20 guests. These festive rentals include indoor and outdoor seating, unlimited bottled water and private fire pits for everyone to gather ’round and roast some s’mores.
Getting to Snowcat Ridge
Snowcat Ridge is located at 27839 Saint Joe Road in Dade City, about a 4-hour drive from Miami. It will open from November 21 to March 7, 2026, and tickets are already available. You can learn more and check their calendar before booking on their website.