An Unforgettable Ride at Ellicottville's IMBA Certified Epic Trail: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

In the heart of New York, just an hour south of Buffalo, lies Ellicottville—a town that serves as the cornerstone for some of the most intriguing mountain biking experiences on the East Coast. With its IMBA certified Epic Trail, designed by mountain bikers for mountain bikers, this expansive trail network is the talk of the town and beyond.

The Trail System: A Symphony of Climbs and Descents

With a sprawling distance of 31 miles, the trail network in Ellicottville is not for the faint-hearted. The paths are categorized into different areas for a more tailored riding experience:

• East McCarty Hill Area: Known for the Big Merlin trail.
• Mutton Hollow Area: Features Porcupine Trail, Mutton Hollow Trail, and Yukon's Lunch.
• Rock City State Forest Connections: Home to the Pale Ale Trail and Rim Trail.

The trail design prioritizes sustainability, featuring effective drainage systems and built-in dry areas. When it's wet elsewhere, these trails are often still rideable. But be prepared for roots protruding across the trail, especially after periods of heavy rain.

Riding Experience: Technical and Rewarding

There is a palpable sense of excitement in the air, a kind of electrifying energy that promises a demanding but fulfilling ride. Many riders have noted the challenging aspects of the trail, including rocky terrains and root-riddled paths. This trail system offers a variety of experiences:

• Technical Terrain: Rocks, roots, and occasional rock gardens.
• Climbs: Long, steep and designed to test your mettle.
• Descents: Rocky and rooty but incredibly fun.

However, newcomers or those seeking a gentler ride might find it overwhelming. The trail demands focus and stamina, particularly when tackling its notorious roots and rock gardens.

What the Community is Saying

• "Unreal," "awesome," and "fantastic" are some of the common adjectives used to describe the trails.
• Some riders recommended visiting local bike shops like Bike and Bean for route advice and maps.
• While labeled as 'difficult,' some riders felt the trails were more 'intermediate,' primarily because the technicalities lie in the roots and rocks rather than vertical climbs.

Logistics and Getting There

The trails can be accessed from Holiday Valley via the singletrack behind the top of the Eagle Chair lift, or more conveniently from the top of Mutton Hollow Road. The best place to begin and finish your ride is from Eagle Rd off Hwy 219. Trail maps are available at the local bike shop on Washington St.Address: Ellicottville, New YorkLevel: DifficultRoute Type: Network

Final Verdict

Ellicottville offers a mountain biking experience like no other. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a seasoned rider looking to improve your technical skills, this trail system promises a ride to remember. Just ensure you're well-prepared, possibly with a local guide or GPS, as the signage could be better. If you haven't added this to your mountain biking bucket list yet, it's high time you did.