Some folks like to think that winter is the perfect time for cozying up indoors with a nice book and a warm cup of cocoa by the fire. However, adrenaline junkies and ski bums of all skill levels know that this time of year is actually the perfect time to get outdoors!
Whether you’re still learning the difference between “pizza” and “french fries” or you’re a regular Chloe Kim on the slopes, there are plenty of winter sports hubs just a short drive from Pittsburgh where you can live out your winter Olympics fantasies for just a day, or maybe even a long weekend.
If you’re looking for the best spots to go skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and more, check out some of our picks for the best nearby spots to hit the slopes.
Boyce Park
Plum Borough
Boyce Park is a classic family-friendly getaway located just a short drive from the city center. Winter sports fans of all levels will love Boyce Park’s beginner and intermediate ski slopes, two totally tubular Terrain Parks, and a snow tubing area with a Magic Carpet on each side. While the lodge is closed for the season, plenty of lockers and benches are available outside. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance!
Mystic Mountain at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort
Farmington, Fayette County
Nemacolin’s Mystic Mountain boasts six slopes for skiiers and snowboarders of all levels — that’s 25 acres in total! This star-studded resort runs the gamut of winter activites, from private lessons, ski camp for learners of all ages, and Sno-Go ski bike rentals. Snow tubing will also be available soon at Mystic Mountain. Plus, day guests are welcome to stop by Nemacolin’s casual restaurant APEX for a bite to eat and to get warm with stunning views of the mountain.
Seven Springs Mountain Resort
Somerset County
Whether you’re looking to spend a day on the slopes or to escape for a long weekend, Seven Springs makes it simple to plan your perfect trip. Ski and snowboard tickets are available online, and if you don’t have your own gear, you can rent properly-fitted equipment from Seven Spring’s fleet of gear. The mountain features 33 slopes and trails, seven Terrain Parks, and 10 lifts, as well as the only 22-foot Superpipe on the east coast. Not quite ready to shred? No worries — snowsports school is available for guests of all ages, and no experience is required to rush down one of Seven Springs’ 11 snow tubing lanes.
Hidden Valley Resort
Somerset County
Families with little ones or beginners will love Hidden Valley’s intimate resort environment, perfect for making lifelong memories together. Featuring 26 trails and slopes, Hidden Valley’s snowsports school is an excellent way to acquaint the whole family to skiing or snowboarding, and children as young as four are welcome to join in on the snow tubing fun! Plus, Hidden Valley’s dining options offer lots of delicious apres-ski treats for when you’re ready to warm up.
Laurel Mountain Ski Resort
Ligonier, Westmoreland County
Laurel Mountain Ski Resort is an adventurer’s dream. Skilled shredders undoubtedly know Laurel Mountain best for its double diamond Lower Wildcat Slope, which is the steepest in the state and averages a near 60% slope, or perhaps they’re daydreaming of tearing down the mountain’s 761-foot vertical drop, unmatched elsewhere on the Laurel Ridge. Whether you’re ready to tackle these heart-pumping slopes or are intrigued by the breathtaking history of Laurel Mountain, this resort has a little something for everyone.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
I’d like to hit the slopes but unfortunately have not been unable this year.
Boyce park prices are astronomical high for 3 hours of skiing with no Senior Discounts offered and no discounts if you bring your own skis.
7 Springs, Laurel mountain and Hidden Valley have no commendations so I can bring my wife for she to sit safety in the lodge and read a book while I’m out skiing.
If I had my own personal RV, perhaps I could park it in the parking lot and use that as a home base but that’s not an option.