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Ellicottville, NY, may be known for its ski slopes, with Holiday Valley Resort drawing in countless skiers every winter. However, Holiday Valley can be enjoyed year-round, and has lots to offer during the warmer seasons. With an 18-hole golf course, a mountain coaster and a tree top aerial adventure park, there are endless adventures to be had. Here are a few ideas for family travellers planning their next summer escape:
Climb and swing amongst the trees at the adventure park
Credit: holidayvalley.com
Get your Tarzan on and experience Holiday Valley’s Sky High Adventure Park. With 13 courses, 173 obstacles and 43 zip lines, this adventure park is the largest in New York State. These courses vary in difficulty, so kids – and adults – can enjoy.
Looking for more excitement? Make time for the Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster, though be warned: this 86-metre drop coaster is not for the faint of heart. The ride stretches almost 1,525 metres in length, taking guests on a journey through the woods of the resort. With riders able to control the speed of their car, opt for speed or simply sit back and enjoy the view.
Challenge your family to a game of golf
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Looking more for a leisure afternoon? How about a game of golf on the 18-hole course, on-site at Holiday Valley? The 5,944-metre Double Black Diamond golf course is both scenic and challenging. With four sets of tees for each hole, both less experienced players, as well as true golf enthusiasts, can enjoy a game together. A day on the course is only $54 USD weekdays or $68 USD weekends, including the cart. Feeling like you need to brush up on your skills? The resort’s Master Professional, Steve Carney, offers golf lessons for golfers of all skill levels, so you’ll be able to master the sport before the end of your visit.
Unwind with a cold drink by the pool
Credit: holidayvalley.com
At Holiday Valley, the social hub and atmosphere is just as important as the many activities and events offered. The resort’s pool complex – which includes a lap pool, toddler pool, and an activity pool with a diving board and waterslide – is the social hub of the Ellicottville scene. Allow yourself to relax and unwind with a cold drink after a fun-filled day at the adventure park; with full food and drink service from both the Cabana Bar and John Harvard’s Brew House, you can feel free to indulge here. In addition, it’s a great place to socialize with other travellers and experience the culture of Ellicottville. The pool complex is open on weekends from May 26 to June 10 and daily from June 16 through Sept. 3.
Kayak the Spruce Lake
On weekends starting June 16, take an adventure on the beautiful Spruce Lake. With stand up paddle boards and kayak rentals available, there’s many ways to enjoy the Spruce. No matter the water sport, it will be an unforgettable experience for the entire family. To enjoy the incredible scenery of the area, take a chairlift ride to the lake, available on weekends starting Aug. 4. Afterwards, you can take the lift back to base or enjoy a scenic hike down the mountain, as there are many nature trails to choose from.
Mountain bike the ski slopes
Credit: holidayvalley.com
Are there any adrenaline junkies in your family? With 56 kilometres of single track trails throughout the forest – all free to ride – it’s the perfect area for mountain bikers. Feeling exceptionally adventurous? Bike Holiday Valley’s newest flow trail, which starts at Spruce Lake and winds back and forth across the ski slopes, complete with big-banked turns. Take a leisurely family cycle down the mountain, or push yourself to the limit on those banked turns; it’s your call!
This article was brought to you by Holiday Valley Resort in Ellicottville, New York. Come play with your family and friends, just an hour south of the Peace Bridge. Click here to plan your trip.