Winter Recreation in Chautauqua County – Ride, Ski, Tube, Bike, Trek
Chautauqua County receives an abundance of snow throughout the long winter, usually averaging more than 100 inches annually, making the Chautauqua Lake Erie Region a destination for travelers interested in many types of winter activities.
For downhill and cross-country snow sports, head to Peek’n Peak Ski Resort and enjoy 20+ slopes and trails, state-of-the-art snowmaking, eight chairlifts, five progressive terrain parks, and a renowned ski and snowboard school. There’s even a tubing area with a “Magic Carpet” lift that transforms into a nighttime Lunar Lights Snow Tubing experience. The thrilling and mesmerizing atmosphere features an ever-changing light show produced by thousands of LED lights and projection lights. The lights pulse, fade and change in coordination with an immersive sound system.
Cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and fat-tire bikers will also find opportunities on the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region’s multi-use trail systems including Long Point State Park on Chautauqua Lake, Lake Erie State Park, Boutwell Hill State Forest, the Eastside and Westside Overland Trails, Chautauqua Institution and the Jamestown Audubon Community Nature Center.
Equipment Rental Information
Learn How or Improve How to Ski and Snowboard – It’s Never Too Late to Start
Those interested in learning to ski or snowboard can look no farther than Peek’n Peak Resort; both employ trained snow sports instructors who can take the intimidation factor out of this beloved winter pastime, no matter your age! Peek’n Peak’s Snow Sports School specifically utilizes a proven five-step system called Terrain Based Learning. By shaping snow features to naturally teach speed control and body position, traditional fears and anxieties sometimes felt by new enthusiasts are quelled.
Après Ski – Cultural Attractions and Craft Beverages in Chautauqua County
Nothing warms the heart like laughter. The intuitive technology powering the National Comedy Center in Lucille Ball’s hometown, Jamestown, NY, takes guests on an interactive journey through comedy’s history. Named by TIME magazine as one of its "World's Greatest Places" -- and by People magazine as one of its"100 Reasons to Love America, the National Comedy Center is a destination for all things comedy. Perform Comedy Karaoke, challenge friends to a Laugh Battle and explore more than 50 interactive exhibits and special collections. Dual admission to the Lucy-Desi Museum is available.
Experience other cultural attractions like the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History, Robert H. Jackson Center,or Fenton History Center. In Westfield, the hometown of Welch’s, the Grape Discovery Center tells the story of the local grape industry through engaging exhibits and displays. Visitors have an opportunity to taste the flavors of the region by sampling local wine and grape juice. Visit the museum store for grape-inspired art, artisanal food products, and local wine sold by the bottle.
Tour Lake Erie Wine Country’s over 20 wineries, each offering a unique guest experience. The Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region is also home to several craft breweries and distilleries including Southern Tier Brewing Company, Big Inlet Brewing, Five & 20 Spirits & Brewing, plus more.
Winter Weekend Getaways
Chautauqua County is a great place for a relaxing weekend getaway. With many local accommodations offering special packages, winter is one of the best times of year to visit. Treat your loved one to a weekend of pampering at the spa or a weekend of winter fun on the slopes at Peek'n Peak resort. Or book a romantic weekend for you and your sweetheart.
For a full schedule of events and winter attractions, call the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau at 866-908ILNY (4569) or visit TourChautauqua.com.