City of Utica Announces Soft Reopening of Val Bialas Ski Facility and Winter Break Vacation Hours
Utica, NY — The City of Utica is excited to announce the re-opening of the Val Bialas Ski Facility on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 4:00 p.m., welcoming the return of skiing and snowboarding to the city.
To celebrate the reopening, the City will offer extended hours throughout the February break and a special “Waking Up Val Bialas” $20 unlimited day pass lift tickets and $10 tow handle passes, beginning February 13th and continuing through Sunday, February 22, 2026. For hours of operation and other details please see below.
Mayor Michael P. Galime invites residents and visitors to join him at the ski hill on Friday, February 13, to celebrate this milestone. Complimentary refreshments, including water, coffee, tea, and hot cocoa, will be available.
For the remaining season, while it may be short, skiers, riders, and visitors are reminded that the ski chalet, which features a two-sided fireplace, tables, and seating, as well as functioning concession with drinks and snacks, is a great place to relax for both people using the hill, or just hanging out watching the family ski and snowboard.
“This is a big milestone, and a soft-open – so I hope it all goes well. I could not be more excited to get this hill running, and pave the way for creating a 12-month destination for City residents that rests in our own backyard.” -Mayor Galime
Val Bialas Ski Hill Winter Break Vacation Hours and Rates
Friday February 13, 2026 – February 22, 2026
- Monday–Friday: 1:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
All lift tickets through break $20.00 per day
Tow Handle only tickets through break $10.00 per day
Children ages 5 and under FREE
For Regular operating rates and hours effective February 23, 2026 see below.
Regular Operating Hours Beginning the Week of February 23, 2026
Val Bialas Ski Hill Hours
- Wednesday–Friday: 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Rates:
Night Ski: $20.00
4-Hour Pass: $20.00
Day Pass (9-Hour): $35.00
Tow Handle only (valid all day): $15.00
Children (5 and under): FREE
Weekend Skate & Ski: $50.00
Weekend Skate & Ski can be purchased as early as Friday at 4PM, and includes unlimited access to both the ski hill and ice rink during the weekend of purchase, through Sunday close – includes skate rental.
Ice Skating Rink Winter Break Vacation Hours
February 14, 2026 – February 22, 2026
- Monday–Friday: 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Regular Operating Hours Skating Rink Hours Beginning the Week of February 23, 2026
- Wednesday–Friday: 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
All ice rink rates will remain unchanged.
