Snowmobile Season is Here!
New York State, with its boundless space and varied terrain, is home to over 10,000 miles of well cared for and safe snowmobiling trails. If you’re thinking of a snowmobile trip in New York State, the snowmobileapp is a good first step. The app is a great resource for knowing where the trails are and more importantly, your location once you are in the great outdoors. Whether you’ve never rocketed over snow covered plains or are a hardened trailblazing veteran, New York State is the place for your snowmobiling winter wonderland. Below is the inside scoop on enjoying the trails in Western New York.
The Non-Club Trails:
In New York State there are both club and non-club trails; obviously the first is only available to club members. Membership fees are low, generally, $30 for family and individuals so don’t let that turn you off. However, we are reporting on both for your convenience.
Byrncliff Resort and Conference Center:
Clearly home to a number of activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, even mini golf, the Byrnecliff Resort offers the indecisive or split-sport families a number of different options. The snowmobiling is separated from all the other outdoor diversions so you don’t have to worry about dodging an out of control skier while satisfying your need for speed. The Brynecliff is located in the hills of Wyoming County and hosts a number of events and activities that offer something for everyone.
Chestnut Ridge:
Like its name, Chestnut Ridge is more of a park than a resort, with more amenities and fewer people. It is perfect for the well-prepared group who has everything they need and are looking for a park to let ‘er rip. The area is home to cross country skiing, snowshoeing as well as a toboggan run. There are some accommodations like the one pictured, Mac Kinnon lodge, but be warned they are spartan. Chestnut Ridge is located 20 minutes outside of Buffalo.
Clubs:
While not for everyone, clubs combine the camaraderie of a shared sense of community and the adrenaline pumping, trail-flying, snowmobile rush.
Each club is different with their own requirements; many are modest and require a small fee and some volunteer work. Most are low-key affairs, with little more than a Facebook page. Some clubs operate on private land which they maintain using membership fees. Here are two such clubs in Western New York:
Holland Sno-Rascals Snowmobile Club:
A low-key group judging by their webpage, this not-for-profit snowmobiling outfit has meetings once a week on Mondays. Their mission statement is simple: maintain the trails and respecting the property they use. Their webpage provides information about registration, trail openings and any other announcements they may have. Just don’t expect to be blown away by the presentation.
Genesee Sno-Packers Snowmobile Club:
Slightly more extroverted than the Sno-Rascals, the Genesee Sno-Packers hold a number of events ranging from a bikini rally (seen above) to an ugly Christmas sweater party. Located 30 miles east of Buffalo in Oakfield, the sociable group is also a nonprofit, operating on private land. The club boasts a park and ride location with obviously numerous colorful characters.
Whether you choose to go with a club or no club, do your research on conditions and trail availability as conditions can change rapidly. Observe all safety regulations and have a blast!
Below are some resources for Trail conditions and names of snowmobile clubs in Chautauqua County:
We’d Love to Hear From You!
Please share any stories about awesome runs or great resources for snowmobilers in Western New York. Newbies will appreciate it. Thank you!
