Exploring Winter Fun Locally: Pioneer Park

For the second article in the Exploring Winter Fun Locally series, the Times-Record is going to be highlighting Pioneer Park. For decades, Pioneer Park has been a great place for individuals and families to go and enjoy a fun afternoon. Back in the day the park used to be filled with kids and families spending their afternoons and evenings sledding and skating. We want to shed light on the Valley City Parks and Rec hidden gem that some people in the area might not know about.

Every year, the VCPR floods the open area of the park and creates a large outdoor skating rink. It’s the perfect spot for kids, families, individuals, and couples to give ice skating a try and enjoy some fresh air. Located at 800 NW 4th Street, Pioneer Park also features a warming house that is open on Saturdays and Sundays. From 1-5 PM and 7-9 PM on Saturdays and 1-5 PM on Sundays, people are able to utilize the warming house as a little retreat away from the cold. Keep in mind on colder days, the warming house does stay closed if the temperature is -10 degrees or if the wind chill is 30 below or less.

Sledding is also a great option for kids that are looking for some smaller hills to sled on. Many years ago, before some of the housing and park developments, kids would climb to the top of the large hill and sled all the way down. Now however, there is some smaller side areas where people are able to still sled safely.

Getting outdoors on nicer, winter days is something that some North Dakotans take for granted. Being able to enjoy the fresh, crisp air while creating lasting memories is something many should try to do more of. Let’s get Pioneer Park filled back up with people again!