Cold, Snowy Weather Provide Perfect Setting for Sledding, Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowmobiling; Toboggan Runs Open Weekends at Chestnut Ridge

ERIE COUNTY, NY— Today, Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz emphasized the numerous wintertime recreational activities available at Erie County parks and encouraged residents to take some time over the upcoming holidays to  enjoy the natural beauty of their nearest County park. December snows have provided plenty of foundation for frozen fun favorites such as sledding, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. In addition, downhill skiing takes place at Emery Park and the toboggan runs at Chestnut Ridge Park will be open Fridays from 4-8pm and weekends/holidays from 10am – 4pm.

“Erie County parks are a treasure all year round, but the winter months provide unique opportunities to   enjoy their unparalleled beauty while having fun with family and friends,” said Poloncarz.  “Here in Erie County we are accustomed to getting some snow, and we take full advantage of that to provide free winter recreation and outdoor exercise at our County parks. There is something for everyone to enjoy, and we look forward to residents getting outside over the holidays and throughout the winter months to enjoy the season.”

“While many people might think that the winter season is slow at Erie County parks, nothing could be further from the truth. Our entire Department switches to ‘Winter Mode’ to assist in offering and maintaining the numerous outdoor activities available in our Parks,” said Parks Commissioner Troy Schinzel. “Winter seemed to arrive a bit earlier this year, but even with all the snow I strongly encourage residents to check our website for daily updates on what’s happening before they head out.”

Erie County Parks with Winter Activities:

• Sprague Brook:     Sledding, Groomed XC Skiing, Snowshoeing, Snowmobiling
• Akron Falls:     Sledding, Ungroomed XC Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing, Ice Skating, Snowmobiling
• Chestnut Ridge: Sledding, Ungroomed XC Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing,  Snowmobiling, Tobogganing (Toboggan runs open Fridays 4-8 pm, Weekends/Holidays 10am – 4pm)
• Como Lake:     Sledding, Ungroomed XC Skiing, Snowshoeing, Ice Skating
• Ellicott Creek:     Sledding, Ungroomed XC Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing
• Elma Meadows:     Sledding, Groomed XC Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing
• Emery:     Ungroomed XC Skiing, Snowshoeing, Snowmobiling, Downhill Skiing (T-bar operates from 11am – 7pm weekends & holidays, 4pm – 8pm on Mondays, Thursdays & Fridays)
• Forestry:     Ungroomed XC Skiing, Snowshoeing, Snowmobiling
• Grover Cleveland Golf Course:     Ungroomed XC Skiing, Snowshoeing
• 18 Mile Creek:     Snowshoeing
• Boston Forest: Snowshoeing
• Sgt. Mark A. Rademacher Memorial Park/Hunters Creek: Snowshoeing

For a complete listing of Erie County Parks & Winter Activities, visit http://www2.erie.gov/parks/index.php?q=erie-county-parks-winter-sports