Welcome to Your First Day at Holiday Valley
Planning Your First Trip to Holiday Valley? Here are some tips to make you feel right at home!
Every winter season, Holiday Valley welcomes thousands of skiers and snowboarders—families, friends, and solo adventurers ready to experience the magic of winter in Western New York. We know that planning your first trip can come with a lot of questions, and we are here to make it easy.
Where To Go When You Arrive
We are excited to welcome you to Holiday Valley, and we want to make sure you know exactly where to go. The resort is easily accessed from Route 219 and Holiday Valley Road. Ample free parking is available at all three base areas, with overflow parking (located on Rt. 219 across from the Snowpine chair) on busier days. All three base areas are serviced by high-speed express chairlifts. Follow the guidance of the lot attendants and our yellow jacketed safety patrol.
Base Areas:
- Holiday Valley Lodge – is the first complex as you drive up Holiday Valley Road. It has all services and amenities. It is the location of the ski/board school and rental shop and accesses first timer, beginner, intermediate and advanced terrain.
- Yodeler Lodge (Middle) – it features food and beverage, bar service and retail mountain shop. Primarily accesses intermediate and advanced terrain.
- Tannenbaum Lodge (Upper) – accesses intermediate and easier terrain and features picnic friendly areas (crockpots welcome), and grab and go food items.
- Resort Services Center - Located adjacent to the Holiday Valley Lodge, it houses our customer service, safety, security, group sales and business administrative teams. The center is open 8AM to daily resort closing time. Check our Hours of Operation page.
Where To Start?
Whichever of the three base areas you choose, familiarize yourself with your surroundings including lift and trail options and the New York State Ski Code. Also, it is important to read and abide by posted signs throughout the resort including lifts and trails. If you have questions, please ask our safety patrol (yellow jackets) throughout the resort.
Make Sure You Have a Lift Ticket
All skiers and snowboarders must have a ticket or pass to access the lifts even if you are just starting out. You can pre-purchase online or onsite. If you are a first-time skier or snowboarder, visit our Learn To Ski and Ride page. Lift tickets are available for purchase daily at the Holiday Valley and Yodeler Ticket Booths, the Yodeler Mountain Shop and the Tannenbaum Ticket Booth on weekends and holidays. Additionally, if you are an overnight guest at The Inn at Holiday Valley, Tamarack Club, or Rental Management, you can pick up tickets at those locations.
Need Equipment For Skiing Or Snowboarding?
If you need equipment, we recommend renting all your ski or snowboard equipment from a reputable snow sports retailer instead of borrowing gear. Modern equipment that is well maintained is easier to use and can be adjusted to suit your skill level. At Holiday Valley, you can reserve skis and snowboards online in advance of your visit for the best pricing and to guarantee availability. The Rental Shop is located slopeside in the lower level of the Holiday Valley Lodge.
The Best Time to Ski and Snowboard?
Holidays and weekends are our most popular days throughout the season. If you have flexible travel days, mid-week, during non-holiday periods are usually less busy. Before you visit be sure to check our Hours of Operation page. During peak season Holiday Valley is open seven days and nights.
What Will the Weather be Like?
The weather changes frequently in Western New York and the Southern Tier. A sunny day when you depart may be dramatically different on the way to Holiday Valley, quickly affecting driving and road conditions. Check the resort conditions report and the local road or highway status. Give yourself plenty of time!
What To Pack For Your Day on the Slopes?
Staying warm and dry will help keep you comfortable, safe, and having fun! Dress in layers so you can add or remove as needed and ensure your jacket, pants and gloves are insulated and preferably waterproof. If you are renting equipment, we suggest putting on your boots before putting on your parka, gloves, and helmet. Check out our what to wear guide.
Fuel Up
Outdoor activities in colder winter months take a lot of energy! Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Bring plenty of pocket snacks or check out our food and beverage options. The Holiday Valley Lodge has a slope level café with lighter options and grab and go items and a cafeteria-style marketplace. Yodeler Lodge also features a cafeteria-style marketplace and grab and go items. You can bring your own food and picnic at Tannenbaum or pick up some grab and go drinks and snacks.
Be Prepared
An enjoyable day on the mountain begins with good planning, starting with preparation. Have a plan in place for changing weather, loss of personal items, being separated from your partner or group, and remember to notify your emergency contact in advance. Holiday Valley has day lockers located on the ground floors of the Holiday Valley and Yodeler lodges to accommodate your “extra stuff.”
In cases of immediate need contact:
Safety Patrol: Yellow Jacketed staff throughout the resort
Ski Patrol: 716-699-3935
Customer Service: 716-699-2345
Lost and Found: Is located in the Resort Services Center, adjacent to the Holiday Valley Lodge.