HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of State Parks has announced the department will hold a public open house from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Jan. 20 at Denton Hill State Park ski lodge to discuss a feasibility study about the future uses of the park in Potter County.
The state park was opened as a downhill ski area in 1958, but was closed in November of 2014 when the private operator determined it was no longer able to continue the concession.
“We have worked to ensure the public has the opportunity to play a role in determining the future of the park, including stakeholder meetings and a public survey with more than 1,600 response,” said Bureau of State Parks Director John Hallas. “At this open house we’ll share what we’ve learned through the feasibility study as we work to determine a future course of action for operations at Denton Hill.”
The feasibility study, coordinated by Moshier Studio in Pittsburgh, provides a comprehensive evaluation of the existing infrastructure as well as an in-depth look at long-term potential for skiing and other possible year-round activities at the park.
Officials said the open house will feature a presentation on the data collected and information gathered regarding the current condition of the infrastructure; market analysis for economic viability of ski operations; and public input received through a survey regarding four-season recreational opportunities at Denton Hill.
In the event of bad weather, the open house will be held at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 27 at the lodge. Attendees should listen to local news outlets for cancellation information in the case of adverse weather conditions.
Denton Hill State Park in the Pennsylvania Wilds was opened as a ski area in 1958 and operated by the Commonwealth until 1979. In 1983, DCNR signed a 35-year concession lease agreement with Denton Hill Family and Ski Resort Inc. The concessionaire notified DCNR in November of 2014 that they would no longer be able to operate. Ski operations were closed for the winter of 2014-15.
Although no ski operations are taking place, the park continues to host special events and recreational activities supported by the existing infrastructure.
