Boyce Park ski slopes to open this weekend

Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts can rejoice, because the Boyce Park slopes open up for the season on Saturday.

Allegheny County Parks Department officials said the beginner slope and main slope will be ready around 9:30 a.m. with a base of 18 to 24 inches of snow.

Other slopes, trails and terrain parks, as well as the snow tubing area will open later in the season as snow conditions allow, officials said.

Slopes operate through mid-March, weather and conditions permitting.

Skiing and snowboarding hours are: Monday to Friday, from 3:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Saturdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; and Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Boyce Park will offer 50 percent off slope fees every Wednesday during ski season, excluding New Year’s Day, when holiday rates will be in effect.

Season passes for skiiing and snowboarding are available and may be purchased online.

Boyce Park will host Santa Ski Day from 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 21. Skiers and snowboarders dressed in Santa suits can donate $10 to the Boyce Park Ski Patrol and ski for free. Santa suits will be available for purchase at the door for $20.

Active Allegheny County volunteer firefighters and volunteer emergency medical technicians are eligible for free season ski passes through the Park Pass Program.

More information, including holiday hours and rates, is available at skiboyce.com or call 724-733-4656.