With winter here, cold sports enthusiasts are ready to participate in recreational activities like skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing.
Although Pittsburgh isnât famous for downhill skiing, there are places to enjoy the sport in Western Pennsylvania that are fun for everyone, from beginners to experienced downhill aficionados. Here are some of our favorites. (Check each resort website for times, which vary widely).
1. Blue Knob All Seasons Resort
1424 Overland Pass, Claysburg
With some of the most challenging slopes in the state, Blue Knobâs 34 trails offer a variety of difficulties depending on a personâs skiing experience. The resort has several easy routes for beginners and others considered more challenging. In addition to skiing, visitors can relax in the condominiums and enjoy the hot tubs and saunas. If you’re looking for a less extreme sport, Blue Knob offers snow tubing for a family-friendly winter experience.
Other amenities: Dining at the Blue Knob Clubhouse and lodging at the Alpine Village. Other outdoor winter activities include cross-country skiing, snow tubing and snowshoeing.
2. Boyce Park
901 Centerview Drive, Plum
This smaller ski area provides visitors with affordable options and is perfect for kids and adults who are learning the sport. While it may not be the biggest resort, Boyce Park offers inexpensive skiing lessons that are perfect for locals who want to dip their toes in winter outdoor recreation.
Other amenities: Additional outdoor winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing.
3. Hidden Valley
1 Craighead Road, Somerset
Hidden Valley is perfect for all skill levels. The resortâs slopes, trails, and beginner areas are ideal for new skiers and snowboarders of all ages. It also boasts kid-friendly opportunities, like a children’s ski school.
Other amenities: Dining at the Glaciers Pub or food court and lodging at sister site Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Other outdoor winter activities include night skiing.
4. Mount Pleasant of Edinboro
14510 Mt. Pleasant Road, Crawford
Mount Pleasant of Edinboro offers a family-friendly winter skiing experience with its 10 trails and eight snow tubing lanes. This small resort near Erie provides several winter activities for guests, including nighttime skiing and snowboarding.
Other amenities: Dining at the Slopeside Grille. Other outdoor winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing.
5. Laurel Mountain Ski Resort
347 Summit Ski Road, Boswell
With 20 slopes and trails, including the famous Wildcat Slope, the Laurel Mountain Ski Resort is perfect for experienced skiers. However, the resort also offers skiing lessons for anyone who wants to learn or improve their skiing skills.
Other amenities: Dining at the Laurel House Cafe and Wildcat Lounge and lodging at sister site Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Other outdoor winter activities night skiing.
6. Seven Springs Mountain Resort
777 Water Wheel Drive, Seven Springs
Pennsylvania’s largest ski resort, the iconic Seven Springs Mountain Resort is open year-round and is perfect for visitors who want to ski or just enjoy the winter with family in their lodges. The resort offers 33 slopes and trails and seven terrain parks for skiers and snowboarders to explore.
Other amenities: Dining at Helenâs and the Slopeside, lodging at one of several locations at the resort and relaxing at the Trillium Spa. Other outdoor winter activities include night skiing.
This story is part of the new Outdoor Guide series for NEXTpittsburgh focusing on outdoor recreation within a roughly three-hour drive from Pittsburgh.
The Outdoor Guide Series is underwritten by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council as part of its effort to promote the outdoor recreation economy in Pennsylvania and neighboring areas.
