By Elizabeth Carey

2020 taught us to appreciate all that New York has to offer. From waterfall adventures and hiking to wine trails and camping, Western and Central New Yorkers have learned to make the most of New York’s natural attractions throughout the pandemic.

While some ventured farther, many travelers chose to remain in the Empire State to avoid a potential quarantine. That attitude may become more challenging during the winter months, but one thing is certain – the best way to make it through a long New York winter is to embrace the weather and all that it offers.

One welcoming community that makes the most of the season is the Chautauqua region, where chilly winter days are celebrated nearly as much as those beautiful summer sunsets.

Winter Biking

Who says cycling is just for summer? Fat-tire biking across Chautauqua’s frozen trails is growing in popularity. Just ask Dee Dippel, owner of Loud Performance in Bemus Point, where you can rent the all-weather bikes.

“It’s a different way to be outside in winter and whether there’s snow or no snow, you can do it – it’s not Mother Naturedependent like snowmobiling,” he said.

You’ll find trails right behind his shop or head 1.5 miles to Longpoint State Park to find more groomed trails.

“If you’ve never tried it before, it’s worth giving it a shot,” Dippel added. (loudperformance.com)

Winter Wonderland

Chautauqua County typically sees snow totals topping 200 inches each winter – and that means ski resorts, tubing runs, and snowmobile trails are full of opportunity for winter enthusiasts.

Bird Watching

The Chautauqua Ridge offers excellent winter birding opportunities, providing diverse habitats amid a combination of wooded areas, fields and wetlands. The perfect place to begin is the 600-acre Audubon Community Nature Center in Jamestown, where the goal is to connect people with nature.

You can hike along 5 miles of trails, spot a multitude of birds and wildlife, and even meet Liberty, a Bald Eagle who lives on-site after suffering a wing injury.

Toast the Occasion

After your outdoor adventure, you’re sure to be hungry, so choose a family-owned restaurant along the local wine trail, then sip and swirl at Chautauqua wineries or explore many new breweries that comprise the Lake Erie Wine Country’s 53 acres.

Festivities

The winter season culminates with a President’s Day Weekend Winter Celebration, in Mayville, complete with a flare parade, bonfire and an ice castle made from frozen blocks of ice straight from Chautauqua Lake.

“The 2020 castle was made of snow instead of ice due to a lack of ice on the lake, so it looked different,” explained Sheila Webster with the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce. The event is slated for February 12-14, 2021. Note: COVID-19 could impact plans.

Sleigh Rides

On winter weekends, the Chautauqua Institution offers horse-drawn sleigh rides through the grounds – bundle up and have your camera ready to snap scenic photos and capture some Victorian charm!

Planning to visit the Chautauqua area? AAA travel agents can help you save on a Springtime getaway you’ll love.  

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