The Enchanted Mountains are Calling
The Enchanted Mountains are Calling
“Snow” Much Fun to Be Had
The Enchanted Mountains of Western New York rolls out the white carpet for you! Experience winter in all its glory by snowmobiling, tubing, making your own cross country ski trails on state land, enjoying the groomed trails at our ski resorts or Allegany State Park, ice skating, ice fishing, and so much more!
Whatever it is you do for relaxation, you can do it here in our serene, peaceful locations. Enjoy your leisure time by spending an extended amount of time here; we have a wide assortment of fine accommodations that will meet every need.
In addition to skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in Ellicottville, here is a list of other winter opportunities to experience in the Enchanted Mountains…
Snowmobiling throughout Cattaraugus County: There’s not much that compares to the thrill of discovering the joy of winter while cascading over the snow on trails that lead you through forested sections and over open fields covered with sparkling snow. The 400+ miles of snowmobile trails weave paths throughout the county and into Allegany State Park and connect with adjacent counties. The Enchanted Mountains has numerous lodging facilities that offer direct or easy access to the trails and restaurants that are friendly to snowmobile groups as well. (You must stay on the trails when snowmobiling in Cattaraugus County.) Each year we invite you to request a new map/brochure so you know where to ride! For a FREE map of the snowmobile trails in Cattaraugus County, along with listings of lodging, restaurants, parking spots for your trailer, service stops and gas stations, please visit EnchantedMountains.com/Snowmobiling.
Art Roscoe Trails: Allegany State Park holds our most famous area of trails - the Art Roscoe Trails, which is dedicated to the forefather of Western New York skiing, Arthur Roscoe, who mapped out many of the logging trails now used in this area. Offering 20 miles of groomed trails, these trails range from beginner to advanced with varying mileage in the different loops. Winterized cabins are located within a short walking distance from the trail system as well. Plan a whole winter getaway for the family to get in some great cross country skiing. (Snowshoeing is not allowed on the groomed trails but there are plenty of other trails for you nearby to snowshoe.)
Fat Biking: Challenge yourself on a mountain bike frame with wide tires, known as a “fat bike.” The tires are a minimum of 3.8 inches, allowing you to go where a normal bike won’t take you. Enjoy the trails through McCarty Hill State Forest, Little Rock City, HoliMont, Allegany State Park, and Golden Hill State Park. Visit EnchantedMountains.com/Fat-Biking for more information.
Snowshoeing at Pfeiffer: Need a new place to go snowshoeing? Try the trails at Pfeiffer Nature Center in Portville, NY. Consisting of two properties - each with a unique set of traits - both of them offer hills, flatlands, wetlands and meadows and forests. Perfect for watching the snow fall quietly as you experience the calmness and beauty of a Western New York winter. The Lillibridge Property has 6 miles of trails and is home to the old growth forest and a historic cabin that hosts special events throughout the year. The Eshelman Property has just over 3 miles of trails and is especially used by birdwatchers in and outside of the county. Attend one of Pfeiffer’s events or just spend a day snowshoeing and then head to Sprague's Maple Farms, just minutes away to warm up with some delicious menu items, most containing fresh, locally tapped maple syrup.
Ice Fishing: For the hardier sportsperson, try ice fishing on our lakes during one of those sunny, brilliant wintry days. There is plenty of room to spread out and set up your shanty. Our lakes provide excellent habitat for many sports fish, including tiger musky in Lime Lake and Walleye along the reservoir. Drop a line in at New Albion, Case, Harwood, Quaker or Red House Lakes for even more fishing fun! For information on licenses, bait shops, and guidelines for fishing in the Seneca Nation, please visit EMFun.us/Fishing.
Ice Skating: Put your ice skates on or rent a pair and glide along the ice indoors at the William O. Smith Recreation Center in Olean, NY. Call 716-373-RINK to confirm ice skating hours. The Enchanted Mountains has two outdoor rinks as long as the weather allows - Little Valley Skating Pond and the Ice Pond in Salamanca.
Experience a Simpler Way of Life: For the ultimate viewing, travel through our Old Order Amish community on New York's Amish Trail in a rural setting with open landscapes. You will come upon Amish buggies that go a comfortable speed of 10mph. Don’t be in a hurry… slow down and appreciate the winter scenery. Make sure you stay on the main roads, as the side roads may not be plowed. As you make stops at the different Amish owned shops, you will be able to fill up on delicious baked goods, buy a handmade quilt and stock up on wonderful gifts all before going home. Not sure where to go? Visit AmishTrail.com to request the newly updated, FREE brochure and map which can be mailed directly to you.
There really are “Snow Many Activities” to choose from in the Enchanted Mountains of Western New York. To learn more about any of these and other snowy fun adventures, visit EnchantedMountains.com/Winter.