While many activities and events have been postponed or cancelled due to the COVID-19 virus, the good news is that we are still able to engage in outdoor activity as long as we practice safe social distancing. And with the arrival of Spring and warmer weather, now more than ever Ellicottville is a great place to live. In contrast to congested urban settings where you may be hard pressed to find things to do, our area's wide-open undulating landscape is a paradise for the outdoor enthusiasts who reside here - walkers, runners, hikers, and cyclists… and Glen Burn Trail puts you in the center of it all.

When visiting the outdoors during the COVID-19 outbreak, “The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) and the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) encourage New Yorkers to recreate locally, practice social distancing, and use common sense to protect themselves and others.”(www.parks.nygov/covid19) And one of the best ways to stay active, boost your immune system and reduce stress and anxiety is by taking a walk in the park or hitting a trail.

So when you live in Ellicottville, whether you're taking a leisurely stroll at Nannen Arboretum (www.nannenarboretum.com), connecting with art and nature at Griffis Sculpture Park (www.griffispark.org), exploring Allegany State Park's (www.facebook.com/alleganystatepark) extensive network of trails, or navigating scenic rolling on-road cycling routes and trails, you'll get an up-close look at the beauty of our amazing area.

And some additional positive news for locals is that Holiday Valley Mountain Resort (www.holidayvalley.com) has opened the front nine of their Double Black Diamond Golf Course. Guests are reminded to maintain a distance of six feet from each other at all times, that the Pro Shop is not open and there are no carts, food and beverage or facilities available. Cost is $20 for 9 or 18 holes and you must reserve online or call 716-699-2345 for a tee time.

So, Ellicottville residents get out there and embrace our local natural assets safely and responsibly! And for those of you interested in more information about the Glen Burn Trail lifestyle contact Team Pritchard (www.teampritchard.com) – Cathleen Pritchard or Melanie Pritchard (716-575-SELL).