Boyce Park Ski Area may be small and located within a park managed by Allegheny County, but it is conveniently situated just outside of Pittsburgh, making it an easy destination for a spontaneous afternoon outing. Lift tickets are affordable, with discounts available for children, seniors, and larger groups. Consequently, it becomes an attractive option for those seeking an economical way to spend a few leisurely hours when time does not permit a lengthy trip to a larger ski resort. Furthermore, Boyce Park utilizes snow-making technologies, ensuring that skiing conditions remain favorable early in the season, much to the delight of nearby season pass holders who enjoy a prolonged ski season.
Within the park, visitors can explore nine runs featuring moguls, a halfpipe, and Nastar timing courses with gates and jumps. However, it is important to note that Boyce Park is predominantly geared toward beginners, so advanced skiers should seek out more challenging options.
The Ski Season
Boyce Park Ski Area operates from mid-December to mid-March, subject to weather conditions. Saturdays host the longest skiing hours, allowing skiing from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Moreover, from Monday through Friday, guests can ski from 3:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., predominantly engaging in night skiing since daylight fades early throughout much of the ski season. Sundays provide skiing opportunities from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., emphasizing the nighttime skiing experience. Extended hours are available on holidays, so it is advisable to check for updated hours if planning a holiday skiing getaway.
Getting to Boyce Park
Situated near U.S. Highway 22 and conveniently off the turnpike (Interstate 76), Boyce Park in Plum Borough is easily accessible for anyone traveling within the metro Pittsburgh area.
Boyce Park Ski Overview
Boyce Park features nine slopes and trails, 75 percent of which cater to beginners and are ideal for young children. The remaining 25 percent of the slopes accommodate intermediate skiers.
The park boasts two double lifts, two surface lifts, and two magic carpets, one of which is specifically designed for snow tubing.
At an elevation of 1,232 feet, Boyce Park has a vertical drop of 160 feet. The longest run extends to 1,300 feet, and the facility offers various amenities, including night skiing, equipment rentals, and ski lessons.
In addition to traditional downhill skiing, Boyce Park provides opportunities for snow tubing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and programs specially designed for children. The Four Seasons Lodge is an inviting place to relax and warm up after skiing, featuring a cozy fireplace, hot food, and beverages, alongside stunning slope views from the observation area on the lodge’s second floor.
It is noteworthy that fees vary for residents and non-residents, with slope fees generally peaking from Friday through Sunday and on holidays.
More Area Ski Resorts
Boyce Park represents one of several ski resorts in the greater Pittsburgh region. Other notable resorts include Blue Knob, Canaan Valley, Hidden Valley, Holiday Valley, Laurel Mountain, Mystic Mountain, Peek ‘n’ Peak, Seven Springs, Snowshoe, and Wisp. These neighboring resorts offer a spectrum of difficulty levels, from beginner-friendly slopes to more challenging terrains; therefore, researching each option is essential to finding the perfect mountain for your skiing preferences.