Holiday Valley ski resort: Guide for Skiing & Snowboarding

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By Riley H.

Are you a snow sports enthusiast? Holiday Valley Ski Resort is a must-visit destination for snow sports enthusiasts and family trips. With a wide range of activities, this resort is perfect for your 2024/2025 winter holiday getaway. Here, Trip.com provides a guide for everything you may need to know before you go!👀

Where is Holiday Valley Ski Resort?

Holiday Valley Ski Resort is located in Ellicottville, New York, approximately 50 miles south of Buffalo and 3 hours from major cities like Cleveland and Toronto. It is nestled in the scenic foothills of the Allegheny Mountains.

Getting there

TransportationDetailsBook Now
CarFrom Buffalo, NY:About 50 miles (1 hour). Take Route 219 South directly to Ellicottville Car Rentals in Buffalo
From Cleveland, OH:Around 3 hours (180 miles). Take I-90 E and then Route 219 South Car Rentals in Cleveland
From Toronto, ON:About 3 hours (190 miles). Follow QEW and cross at the Peace Bridge into the U.S., then take Route 219 South. Car Rentals in Toronto
U.S. eSIM for Canada Travelers
AirBuffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)The closest major airport, about 1 hour away. Rental cars and shuttles are available. Flights to BUF
Car Rentals in BUF
Erie International Airport (ERI)Located about 1 hour and 45 minutes from the resort Flights to ERI
Car Rentals in ERI
BusSome regional bus services, like Greyhound or Coach USA, stop in Buffalo. From there, you can rent a car or take a local shuttle to Ellicottville. Car Rentals in Buffalo

* Holiday Valley occasionally offers shuttle services during peak seasons. 👉Check the official website for availability.

Enjoy 8% OFF for Car Rentals from Trip.com👈

Open Hours

SeasonWeekdays (Mon-Fri)Weekends (Sat-Sun)Special Holiday
Winter HoursMon-Wed: 9am - 9pm
Thu- Fri: 9am - 10pm
8:30am - 10pmChristmas Eve: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Christmas Day: 12-10pm
Spring Hours (March 17-April 6)9am - 4pm8:30am - 4pm-

* These information are only for reference. Get more details from official website: holidayvalley.com👈

Trail Conditions at Holiday Valley Ski Resort

Holiday Valley Trail Map/ Source: holidayvalley.com

Holiday Valley Ski Resort boasts 60 well-groomed trails spread across 290 acres of skiable terrain, catering to all skill levels from beginners to experts. The resort is equipped with state-of-the-art snowmaking technology, ensuring optimal snow coverage throughout the season.

Diverse Trail Options

  • 39% Beginner: Ideal for newcomers, with wide, gentle slopes like Morning Star and Tannenbaum.
  • 31% Intermediate: For those advancing in skills, trails like Cindy's Run and Edelweiss provide smooth yet challenging runs.
  • 30% Advanced/Expert: Thrilling black diamond trails, including The Wall, deliver steeper gradients and technical challenges.
  • Longest Run: The longest trail, Tannenbaum, spans approximately 1 mile, winding through scenic landscapes for a leisurely yet fulfilling descent.
AreaRecommended Skill LevelDifficultyDescription / Why It’s Suitable
Morning StarBeginnerGentle, wide trail perfect for learning.
Cindy’s RunIntermediate⭐⭐Smooth inclines for skill-building and refining turns.
Mardi GrasIntermediate⭐⭐Long, scenic run ideal for carving and gaining confidence.
The WallAdvanced⭐⭐⭐⭐Steep, thrilling black diamond trail for seasoned skiers.
TannenbaumBeginner, ScenicThe longest trail, offering a relaxed, family-friendly ride.

Varied Terrain Parks

Holiday Valley features four terrain parks catering to all freestyle skill levels:

  • The Riglet Park: Perfect for beginners, with gentle slopes and simple features.
  • Burton Progression Park: Offers small jumps and rails for building confidence in freestyle skiing or snowboarding.
  • Foxfire Park: Intermediate-level park with more advanced features.
  • 360 Park: Designed for experienced riders with challenging jumps, rails, and boxes.

Updated Snow Reports

Holiday Valley offers real-time updates on snow conditions, open trails, and lift statuses via their website and mobile app. With live updates, skiers can quickly adapt plans based on latest situation. These updates include:

  • Snow Depth and Type: Daily reports detail natural snowfall and machine-made snow coverage.
  • Grooming Updates: Information about trails freshly groomed for optimal skiing conditions.
  • Open Lifts and Trails: A detailed list ensures skiers can plan their visit efficiently.

Facilities at Holiday Valley Ski Resort

Skiing facilities @Trip.com

🚠 Chairlifts

Holiday Valley features 13 lifts, including:

  • High-Speed Sixes: 1 chairlift for quick uphill transportation.
  • High-Speed Quads: 3 lifts, reducing wait times for busy days.
  • Quad Chairs: 7 in total, ideal for groups.
  • Surface Lifts: 2 for beginners and shorter runs.

These lifts offer access to the resort's 60 trails by strategically placing to serve beginner areas like Creekside Lodge as well as advanced trails near the resort's peak​.

🎿 Rental Equipment

Holiday Valley has a well-equipped rental center offering skis, snowboards, poles, helmets, and boots. Designed for both beginners and experienced visitors, the center ensures smooth processing, so you can spend less time preparing and more time on the slopes​.

🏫 Learning Centers

Two learning zones are available:

  • Creekside Lodge Beginner Center: Offers lessons and easy slopes, making it perfect for new skiers.
  • Tannenbaum Lodge: Another beginner-friendly area near gentler trails.

These centers provide a supportive environment for skill-building, with certified instructors and specialized programs for kids and adults alike​.

🚗 Parking & Accessibility

The resort provides ample parking close to main facilities, ensuring convenience for visitors arriving by car. Locations such as the base lodges have adjacent lots, simplifying access to lifts, rental centers, and dining areas​.

🌟 Additional Features

  • Terrain Parks: The Mardi Gras Rail Park, designed for beginner and intermediate levels, offers freestyle skiing and snowboarding opportunities with features that flow seamlessly​.
  • Night Skiing: Covering 189 acres, it allows extended slope time for those who prefer evening adventures.

Price for Skiing at Holiday Valley Ski Resort

Lift Ticket Price

Ticket TypeAdult (Age 12+)Junior (Age 7-11)
Day Pass (4 hours)$100$78
Day Pass (8 hours)$110$86
Day/Night Lift Ticket$115$92
Night Pass$53$43
2-Day Lift Ticket$183$151
3-Day Lift Ticket$272$234
4-Day Lift Ticket$361$297
5-Day Lift Ticket$450$370

*The prices are original price without discount. Different dates will have different price with different discount. Please check holidayvalley.com to find exact price.

Rentals Price

Holiday Valley Ski Resort provide Rentals based on four categories with different hours. There are many options to select:

  • Ski/Snowboard Rentals: From $39 (4 hours) for a Adult; From $33 (4 hours) for a Junior.
  • Performance Rentals: From $48 (4 hours) per person for General Age.
  • Helmet Rentals: From $12 (4hours) per person for General Age.

Nearby Hotels

There are many options for stays around Holiday Valley Ski Resort. Here, Trip.com provide some recommendations for different needs:
Hotel NameBest ForDistanceStarting Price
The Inn at Holiday ValleySki-in/ski-out, family-friendlyOn-siteFrom $155/night
Wingate by Wyndham EllicottvilleFamilies & Convenience0.7 milesFrom $109/night
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Olean/AlleganyBudget-Friendly17.6 milesUnder $100/night
Seneca Allegany Resort & CasinoLuxury Experience12 milesFrom $100/night
4.4/5: The Inn at Holiday Valley offers the ultimate convenience for skiers and snowboarders with a ski-in/ski-out location. It is perfect for families by locating at the base of the mountain, which makes it easy for everyone to access the slopes and ski lessons.

I

4.4/5: Wingate by Wyndhan Ellicottville provides easy access to shopping, dining, and local attractions. It has amenities include a pool, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast, making it a great base for both skiing and exploring the area.

4.1/5: This budget-friendly option is 17.6 miles from Holiday Valley and provides excellent value for travelers. Trip.com now provide 10% OFF for limited period to make your stay cheaper!

4.5/5: The resort features a full-service spa, casino, and fine dining, making it an ideal retreat after a day on the slopes. This Luxury hotel is only $69 on selected days on Trip.com. Book ASAP!

Nearby Resturants

Dina's
Dina's
Open hours: 07:00-22:00
15 Washington St, Ellicottville, NY 14731, United States
Villaggio
Villaggio
+1 7166992199
7 Monroe St, Ellicottville, NY 14731, United States

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FAQs

  • What are the best times to visit Holiday Valley Ski Resort?

    Typically, from December to March, resort has the most consistent snowfall and optimal skiing conditions. However, for fewer crowds, visiting in early or late season (late November or April) can also provide a great experience with quieter slopes
  • Is Holiday Valley Ski Resort suitable for beginners?

    Yes, Holiday Valley is a great place for beginners. The resort has several dedicated beginner areas, including the "Learning Center".
  • How far is Holiday Valley Ski Resort from Buffalo?

    Holiday Valley is about a 1.5-hour drive (approximately 70 miles) from Buffalo, NY. It's a popular weekend getaway destination for those looking to escape the city for some winter sports fun.
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Holiday Valley Ski Resort