Some people can’t wait to see the first snowflakes of the year, while others count down the days till the return to warmer weather. But there’s one thing we can agree on: the winter season is a long one in Western New York. And everyone can find a way to enjoy themselves at Holiday Valley ski resort.
“One of the great things about winter in this region is the abundance of outdoor activities,” says Holiday Valley Marketing Director Dash Hegeman. “Staying cooped up and hibernating is not ideal, and that’s why we offer so many different ways to get people outside so they can have as much fun as possible throughout winter.”
It’s not just the traditional adventurers who will find thrills and escape at Holiday Valley, which is located about an hour from Buffalo just outside the picturesque Village of Ellicottville.
“You’d be pretty hard pressed not to find something for everyone in your group,” Dash says. “The ski town atmosphere that Ellicottville provides people is really unique and second to none.”
Here are three ways to enjoy the resort, whether you’re at home on the hills or would rather stay warm and cozy.
Fresh air fun
Skiing and snowboarding are the obvious draw at Holiday Valley. The resort offers 13 lifts, 60 slopes and multiple terrain parks and was recently ranked the #11 ski resort among all resorts in the east by SKI Magazine.
Looking for options for younger thrill-seekers or those who don’t want to strap on a board or skis? The Sky Flyer mountain coaster is onsite, and the Snow Tubing Park, complete with conveyor lift and a special area for the littlest tubers, is just a few miles down the road from the resort.
Learn to shred
You’re never too old or too young to learn a new hobby, and the new year is a perfect time to start. Beginners aren’t the only ones who could benefit—Dash says the instructors often also act as guides, sharing their wealth of knowledge about the best slopes and what the rest of the area has to offer.
“Even if you’ve been skiing or snowboarding for many years, you can always learn more,” he says. “We’ve got a very dedicated group of instructors who absolutely love the sports that they’re in, and, more importantly, really love to show people that skiing and snowboarding aren’t just winter activities, they are an amazing lifestyle.”
Resort state of mind
Even if you want nothing to do with the winter weather, Holiday Valley has you covered. There’s an independently run spa on site, or you can cozy up at one of the three lodges for some people-watching and relaxing. Each has great hillside views, plenty of fireplaces and multiple food and drink options, including several bars.
“All three are just a little bit different and offer different amenities, but people can hang out fireside or have a quick lunch and wait for friends out on the slopes,” Dash says.
To turn it into a legit staycation, check out Holiday Valley’s lodging options, which come with great discounts on lift passes and include a traditional rustic inn, condo-style hotel offerings and condominium, townhouse, home or chalet rentals.
Pair it with the close proximity to the Village of Ellicottville for shopping and dining, and you’ve booked yourself an escape to a winter wonderland.
