Keep cool with Summer sport of 'ice blocking' in Phoenix

What is ‘ice blocking’?

Growing up in the desert, young people have to get a little creative to have good old-fashioned fun. When the summer sun starts blazing, it takes more than just a dip in the pool to keep youth occupied. Or sweaty afternoons from filling with boredom.

And that’s exactly how an unlikely activity called ‘ice blocking’ was born. So what is this sport of ice?

Picture this. Somewhere, someone bought a large block of ice on a hot day. Of course the ice began to melt but before it did, they topped it with a towel and used the ice block to slide down grassy hillsides. Viola! Summertime sledding became a favorite pastime.

 

Where to ice block in the Valley of the Sun

The best places to practice ice blocking is at your own home. But not everyone has access to a sizeable hill so the second option becomes public parks. Pick a space with a wide swath to slide down and plenty of slope that doesn’t dead end in say, a cactus.

Cactus Park

Surrounded by sloping hills that cascade into a soccer field basin, Cactus Park is a great place to slide down hills on a hot summer afternoon. The park does not have rules regulating this type of activity but always show respect to other patrons and do not be loud or destructive. The park is located at 7202 E. Cactus Road and is open until 10:30 pm.

Freestone Park

The serene, hilly surroundings of Freestone Park are perfect for the sport of ice blocking. The west side of the park has the best spots to plop down on your frozen “sled” and take a few trips down the rolling hills.

The park is located at 1045 E Juniper Rd in Gilbert.

Keep in mind…

Not everyone brings a towel to sit on when they ice block. But not everyone minds having a cold, wet bottom at the end of the day. Be prepared for the wetness of such activities and plan accordingly. On a typical summer afternoon, swim wear may be appropriate.

If you do use a public place to slide, be sure to show respect to the property. Public parks have rules and regulations 1. To keep everyone safe and 2. To keep the park in good condition. Never destroy private property, leave trash behind, or harm plant life.

But do be sure to

·         Bring a lot of friends (especially key friends to carry the ice block)

·         Pack an ice cooler to transport the giant ice cube

·         Have cold drinks handy

·         Grab a change of clothes and extra towels

·         A radio will make it an official party (not blaring of course)

If you have more suggestions for ice blocking in Arizona, feel free to post them in the comments section.