If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”, you’ve probably wondered where the iconic sledding scene was filmed. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the location and some interesting facts about that memorable scene.
The Filming Location
The sledding scene in “Christmas Vacation” was filmed at a real location rather than on a Hollywood set. The filming took place at Breckenridge Ski Resort in Summit County, Colorado, which is famous for its ski slopes and winter activities.
The Slope
The actual slope used in the movie is called Four O’Clock Run, which is a beginner-level trail that’s about 3.5 miles long. The trail starts near the top of Peak 8 and winds its way down to the base of the ski resort.
The Jump
One of the most thrilling moments in the sledding scene is when Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) flies off a homemade jump with his sled. You might be surprised to learn that this stunt was not done by a professional stunt double but rather by Chase himself! According to reports, he was surprisingly agile on the sled and managed to pull off the jump without any injuries.
Other Interesting Facts
- The filming took place during spring rather than winter because there wasn’t enough snow on the ground during winter.
- The crew had to use fake snow to cover up patches of grass that were visible on the slopes.
- The scene where Clark crashes into an inflatable snowman was actually filmed separately from the rest of the scene, using a dummy instead of Chase.
- The sled used by Clark Griswold in the movie is called a Flexible Flyer sled and is a classic design that’s been around for over 100 years.
Conclusion
The sledding scene in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is one of the most memorable moments in the movie, and it’s fascinating to learn about the real location and behind-the-scenes facts. If you’re ever in Breckenridge, Colorado, be sure to check out Four O’Clock Run and imagine yourself flying down the slopes just like Clark Griswold!