Boyce Park Ski Area in Pittsburgh is a Fun Destination for Snow Lovers

Boyce Park Ski Area near Pittsburgh is a public ski resort located within the William D. Boyce Park, part of the Allegheny County Department of Parks. The park was named after the founder of the Boy Scouts, who grew up in the Monroeville, Pennsylvania area, just a few miles from Pittsburgh. Many of the facilities in the park have names that are Boy Scout-related, including tenderfoot, raven, and eagle.

The ski area at Boyce Park has been in operation for many years and is the only location for downhill skiing within the county. While it is nowhere near as large as the slopes in major ski areas across the country, it is indeed a delightful place to ski, rarely encumbered by crowds. A total of 25 skiable acres can be found at the Boyce Park Ski Area. The summit elevation is 1,232 feet and the vertical drop from there to the base is about 160 feet. The area gets about 70 inches of snow per year, sometimes more and sometimes less. Nevertheless, snow making capabilities are present so there is ample snow to accommodated skiers, snowboarders, and others.

There are a total of 9 trails at Boyce Park Ski Area. There are no advanced trails. Instead, about three-quarters of the trails are meant for intermediate skiers while the remaining ones are suitable for beginnings. The longest run at this ski area is 1,300 feet. A total of five lifts take visitors to the top of the mountain - 3 surface lifts and 2 double chairs. They can accommodate about 500 passengers per hour so there's rarely a line.

Snowboarders are eagerly welcomed at the Boyce Park Ski Area. While there is not a terrain park here, there is an excellent half pipe and snowboarding lessons are available on site. Snowboards can also be rented at this winter ski area. In addition, there are 6 kilometers of cross country ski terrain available for those who prefer this kind of skiing.

Downhill equipment can also be rented at Boyce Park and packages include skis, boots, and poles. Rentals can be for one time only or are available in weekly or seasonal increments. There are lockers located on site, which can also be rented for an entire season if desired.

The climate in the Pittsburgh area allows the resort to be open from approximately mid December through mid March, weather conditions permitting. On weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and holidays, the park opens in the morning and remains open for night skiing. Hours are shorter during the weekdays, with the ski area generally opening in mid to late afternoon and closing by about 10 pm. The slopes are closed on Christmas Day but offer special hours on other holidays. Prices here are quite reasonable and given the number of beginner and intermediate slopes, it is an excellent place for families to ski together. Lessons are offered for all ages, including small children.

Lodging is located nearby at the base of the mountain. Rooms fill up especially quickly on weekends during peak ski season, especially around the Christmas holidays.