
Holiday Valley Resort
Family-friendly ski resort offering winter sports, a thrilling mountain coaster, golf, and lodging in charming Ellicottville.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh powder, fewer crowds

Holiday Valley Resort
Best Time
Fresh powder, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Family-friendly ski resort offering winter sports, a thrilling mountain coaster, golf, and lodging in charming Ellicottville.
"Holiday Valley Ski Resort exceeded all my expectations! The snow was tons of it, and the conditions were perfect."

🎯 Book Lodging in Advance
Holiday Valley lodging fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Book your stay early to guarantee your spot!
⛷️ Ski Lessons Recommended
Even if you're new to skiing, a lesson can make a huge difference. Many first-timers are skiing blue runs by the end of the day!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Winter Slopes
Main Ski Area
Experience thrilling runs for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly trails to challenging powder days. Perfect for skiing and snowboarding.

Mountain Coaster
Adventure Park
A unique alpine coaster offering scenic views and an exhilarating ride down the mountain. Fun for all ages!

Ellicottville Charm
Ellicottville Village
Explore the quaint shops, restaurants, and cozy atmosphere of this charming town adjacent to the resort.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Lodging Early
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Lodging in Advance
Holiday Valley lodging fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Book your stay early to guarantee your spot!
⛷️ Ski Lessons Recommended
Even if you're new to skiing, a lesson can make a huge difference. Many first-timers are skiing blue runs by the end of the day!
☕ Warm Up with Cocoa
Enjoy complimentary hot cocoa at the lodges to thaw out and refuel after a day on the slopes.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can get busy. Aim to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a convenient spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Lodging in Advance
Holiday Valley lodging fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Book your stay early to guarantee your spot!
⛷️ Ski Lessons Recommended
Even if you're new to skiing, a lesson can make a huge difference. Many first-timers are skiing blue runs by the end of the day!
☕ Warm Up with Cocoa
Enjoy complimentary hot cocoa at the lodges to thaw out and refuel after a day on the slopes.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can get busy. Aim to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a convenient spot.
🚠 Efficient Lifts
Lifts are generally quick and efficient, minimizing wait times even during busy periods.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Holiday Valley Resort is widely praised for its excellent snow conditions, well-groomed slopes, and friendly, helpful staff, making it a top choice for winter sports enthusiasts of all levels. Visitors particularly enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere and the variety of activities beyond skiing, such as the mountain coaster. While parking can be a challenge during peak times, the overall experience is consistently rated as highly enjoyable and memorable.
"Gorgeous place outside of Buffalo. We enjoyed the mountain coaster and gem mining. Perfect spot for fall festivities"
Chantal Theresa
"Holiday Valley Ski Resort exceeded all my expectations! From the moment we arrived, everything was smooth and well-organized. The staff was super friendly and made sure we had everything we needed for a great experience. The best part, though, was the snow—there was tons of it, and the conditions were perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Fresh powder made every run smooth and enjoyable, and the trails were well-groomed and clearly marked.
There’s a great mix of trails for all levels, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier. I loved how easy it was to switch between more challenging runs and the relaxing, scenic routes. The lifts were quick and efficient, so we barely had to wait in line, even during peak hours.
Off the slopes, the resort offers cozy lodges with good food and drinks, perfect for warming up after a long day outside. I also appreciated the friendly vibe from both the staff and other guests—it felt like everyone was just there to have a great time.
Overall, Holiday Valley is a fantastic destination for anyone who loves winter sports. I’ll definitely be coming back soon, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and memorable skiing experience!"
Matthew Morrison
"This was my first time ever skiing, I took 1 lesson just to get the hang of it and at the end I was skiing on blue! (And I also now know what blue means 🤣) I'm an au pair and came here with my wonderful host family every year, I highly recommend this place. So sweet and homely, and really nice slopes. Also mini hot chocolates!! :D"
Thea Burger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Holiday Valley Resort is located in Ellicottville, NY. It's accessible by car, with major airports like Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) being the closest. Many visitors drive from Toronto, Canada, and various parts of New York and Ohio.
Yes, parking is available at Holiday Valley. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot.
Public transportation options directly to Holiday Valley are limited. Most visitors opt for driving or carpooling. Some shuttle services might be available from nearby cities during peak season, so it's worth checking local transit information.
The most common way to travel from Toronto to Holiday Valley is by car, which takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on border crossing times.
While not explicitly advertised as 'park and ride,' many visitors carpool. It's advisable to check with the resort or local forums for any organized carpooling initiatives or designated meeting points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift tickets can be purchased online through the official Holiday Valley website or at the ticket window upon arrival. Booking online in advance is often recommended, especially during busy periods.
Operating hours vary by season and day. During the winter ski season, the resort typically opens in the morning and operates into the evening. It's best to check the official Holiday Valley website for the most up-to-date hours.
Holiday Valley often offers various deals and packages, especially for multi-day passes or during off-peak times. Keep an eye on their website for 'ski deals' or 'ski packages.'
It's highly recommended to book tickets for the mountain coaster in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, as it's a popular attraction.
A standard lift ticket typically grants access to all open ski lifts and trails for the duration of your pass. Some packages may include rentals or lessons.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Holiday Valley has a good selection of beginner-friendly trails, often marked as 'green.' The resort is known for its well-groomed slopes suitable for those learning to ski or snowboard.
Yes, Holiday Valley offers ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and skill levels, from first-timers to advanced skiers looking to refine their technique.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Holiday Valley features a mountain coaster, tubing park, golf course (seasonal), and an adventure park. In the fall, they host festive events.
Absolutely! Holiday Valley is renowned for being family-friendly, offering a variety of activities and amenities suitable for all ages, from gentle slopes to the mountain coaster.
Holiday Valley has a dedicated snow tubing park, offering a fun, gravity-powered experience sliding down groomed snow lanes. It's a great option for those who prefer not to ski or snowboard.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Holiday Valley offers several dining options, including lodges with food and drinks perfect for warming up after skiing.
Dining options typically include casual fare like burgers, sandwiches, and hearty meals suitable for skiers and snowboarders. Some lodges may offer more diverse menus.
Yes, you can find quick bites and snacks at various locations throughout the resort, ideal for a refuel between runs.
Ellicottville village, located near Holiday Valley, offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, providing diverse culinary experiences.
While there are dining facilities, bringing some snacks and drinks for personal consumption is generally permissible, especially if you're staying in accommodations with kitchenettes. However, consuming outside food in dining areas might be restricted.
📸 📸 Photography
The mountain coaster offers fantastic panoramic views for photos. The scenic slopes themselves, especially with fresh snow, and the charming Ellicottville village provide great backdrops.
While it's tempting, safety regulations usually prohibit taking photos or videos while riding the mountain coaster. It's best to enjoy the ride and take photos from designated viewing areas before or after.
The summit of the mountain offers expansive views of the ski area and surrounding landscape. Many runs also provide scenic overlooks.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for landscape and action shots on the slopes. Overcast days can also provide soft, even light.
Drone usage is typically restricted at ski resorts for safety and privacy reasons. It's essential to check Holiday Valley's specific drone policy before flying one.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many families appreciate the complimentary hot cocoa available at the lodges, a perfect way to warm up after a day in the snow. The staff are known for being exceptionally helpful with children, making the experience smoother for parents. Consider booking a family ski lesson to get everyone on the slopes together.
🏂 Snowboarders & Skiers
While the resort is generally well-organized, arriving early for parking and lift lines is a good strategy, especially on busy weekends. The efficient lift system helps maximize your time on the slopes. Don't hesitate to explore different areas of the mountain to find your favorite runs.
🍁 Fall Visitors
During this time, activities like the mountain coaster are still operational and offer stunning views of the changing leaves. It's a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather and want to experience the natural beauty of the area without the winter crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Winter Sports at Holiday Valley
Beyond traditional skiing and snowboarding, Holiday Valley also offers a popular snow tubing park. This provides a fun, gravity-powered alternative for those who want to experience the thrill of sliding down snow-covered hills without needing specialized skills. The resort also offers night skiing, allowing visitors to extend their time on the slopes after dark, adding another dimension to the winter sports experience.
For those new to winter sports, Holiday Valley provides comprehensive ski and snowboard lessons. Many first-time skiers have found success, progressing to intermediate blue runs within a single lesson, thanks to the resort's effective instruction. The friendly and helpful staff are a recurring theme in reviews, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Year-Round Adventure Park
The Adventure Park also features other activities such as ziplining and gem mining, adding to the diverse range of recreational options. These activities make Holiday Valley a destination that can be enjoyed beyond the ski season, appealing to a broader audience looking for outdoor fun and adventure. The resort's description as offering an 'adventure park' highlights its commitment to providing varied entertainment.
In addition to the Adventure Park, Holiday Valley also boasts a par-70 golf course, offering a scenic and challenging experience for golf enthusiasts during the spring, summer, and fall. This further solidifies Holiday Valley's reputation as a multi-seasonal resort destination.
Lodging and Accommodations
For those seeking a more private or group-oriented stay, townhouses and cabins are also available. These accommodations are ideal for families or groups of friends looking for a home-away-from-home experience. Booking these accommodations in advance is highly recommended, as they tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak ski season.
Several lodges, such as the Yodeler Lodge and Snowpine Village, are part of the Holiday Valley experience, offering comfortable stays and proximity to the main resort facilities. The availability of diverse lodging options, from hotels to private rentals, ensures that visitors can find a suitable base for their Holiday Valley adventure.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit