There’s something deeply satisfying about flying down a snow-covered hill on an oversized tube, especially when someone else handles the hard part of getting you back to the top.
Mad River Mountain’s Bubly Tubing Park is one of those winter activities that just works. It is easy, fast-paced, and genuinely fun for all ages, whether you are bringing kids, friends, or just leaning into a little cold-weather chaos yourself. Best of all, it is an easy drive from Columbus, which makes it perfect for a day trip or a spontaneous winter outing.
What’s the Tubing Park All About?
The Bubly Tubing Park is the largest tubing park in Ohio, but it does not feel intimidating or exclusive. You do not need experience, special skills, or your own equipment. Mad River provides the tubes, the lanes are well-maintained, and everything is set up so you can focus on the fun part.
Each ticket gets you a two-hour session, which is more than enough time to get plenty of runs in. Two large conveyor belts carry riders back to the top of the hill, which means no trudging uphill and no tired legs halfway through your visit. You slide, hop on the belt, and do it all over again.
When Can You Go?
The tubing park typically opens in late December and runs throughout the winter season, weather permitting. Regular hours usually look like this:
Mad River Mountain also opens the tubing park on select holiday Mondays, including MLK Day and Presidents Day, which makes it a solid option for long weekends.
Pro Tips for a Smoother Ride
Book ahead: Tubing sessions are sold in two-hour blocks and capacity is limited. Weekends, holidays, and fresh snow days tend to sell out quickly, so reserving online ahead of time is your best bet.
Know the basics: Riders must be at least 42 inches tall and ride one person per tube. Tubes need to stay in front of you on the conveyor belt, and riding styles are kept simple for safety.
Dress for it: You do not need ski gear, but warm layers, gloves, and waterproof boots will make the experience much more comfortable.
Snow tubing at Mad River Mountain is the kind of winter fun that feels low effort and high reward. It is fast, silly, and full of laughter, whether you are racing friends or watching kids tumble off their tubes at the bottom of the hill.
If you are looking for a reason to get outside this winter without committing to skis or a full day on the slopes, this one checks all the boxes.
