This activity is done on a man made Ski Slope, in this case we were at the Norwich Ski Slope (Trowse).
You use a similar ring to what you would tow behind a boat in the sea but this one has a re-enforced base to cope with the abrasive surface of the slope, the Snow Tubing slope is actually constructed in a slightly different way to the ski surface - this Snow Tube surface is more like a mat, astro turf but much heavier and white in colour.
The trip down the slope is aided by water mist jets placed at regular intervals across, up and down the surface - be aware you will get wet at some point especially if you sit upon one of these mist outlets (yes I did, well - actually I rolled onto one).
The package lasts One hour and in that time you get to ride the course as many times as you can but the operators aren't silly, oh no - you have to get to the top of the course and there are 'Travelator's' there to help you - these are basically 'Conveyor Belts' you stand on but guess what? they are SLOW.. this ensures you don't do what you do at those 'Eat all you can for £xx' events and abuse the system.
This pursuit is suitable for children from 6yrs up and of course adults, there are Two sizes of ring and the larger adult rings are suitable for persons of a gross weight of up-to 25 stone (anybody bigger would probably break the Travelators and spoil everyone else's fun in any case, they surely would not be able to walk to the top so best use the viewing area to watch the rest of us enjoying ourselves).
I was lucky to take part in this event as my friend had booked this 3 months in advance, he only called to see if they could fit me in on the day on the 'off-chance' but we were lucky. be aware that you MUST book in advance.
The fee is £10 per person for the hour session and you need to arrive 15 minutes before your session starts as you need to listen to some elementary safety instructions.
I am not affiliated with the people who run this activity so I will not give you full details - you will have to Google this for yourself but I hope I have at least given you the information to help you decide on doing this or not - I recommend it, it's not expensive - the people are nice and you will get to see the ski complex (although there is nothing stopping you from walking in there to see whats going on).
Essential Clothing: Gloves, Long Trousers and Long sleeved shirts (they will not allow you to take part if you are not dressed appropriately).
Helmets are supplied, they are colour coded depending on size so if your like me and want a colour that fits your outfit on the day you may be out of luck :)
If anybody is looking for somebody to build a temporary SnowTubing structure I have a friend who does this, more info HERE .
SnowTubing
