182nd Cattaraugus County Fair
Free Concerts
Kinzua Beach
Olean Events
Kids and Cancer
Benefit Run
Ellicottville Events
Kinzua Skywalk
Allegany State Park
Stargazing
Cattaraugus County Museum
26th Annual Kinzua
Bridge Fall Festival
Festa Italiana
Events in Catt. & Allegany counties
Twin Tiers Hiking
By Kellen M. Quigley
The 182nd Cattaraugus County Fair is scheduled for Saturday, July 26, through Saturday, Aug. 2, with two country music grandstand performances — Tracy Byrd will perform at Tuesday night’s concert with special guest Alex Miller, while Flatland Cavalry are Wednesday night’s performers.
Available through July 25, advance sale pay-oneprice tickets are $12 each for those 2 and older — $3 each less than gate admission from Saturday on, which goes to $15. Admission includes unlimited Amusements of America midway rides.
Gates open daily at 8 a.m., with the midway open at 1 p.m. Animals are in place on Saturday preceding the fair. Vendors are typically open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., depending on the crowd.
Advance sale gate admission is available at the fair office, 501 Erie St., Little Valley; online at www.cattarauguscofair. com; at all Cattaraugus County Bank locations; the Cattaraugus County Credit Union in Little Valley; the South Dayton Super Duper; select Community Bank, N.A. locations and online at etix.com.
4-H looking forward to ‘Out of This World’ fair
Meanwhile, 4-H members from across the
county have spent recent months preparing their projects for the fair.
Over 250 young exhibitors are working hard to put the finishing touches on a variety of projects — some youth are fine-tuning their recipes to bake a blue-ribbon worthy pie,
while others are training livestock for their showring debut.
This year’s 4-H theme is “Outer Space,” which fair attendees may notice while browsing through the exhibits with a variety of decorations.
While the animals are
judged in the showring, exhibitors are also judged on the presentation of their stalls in the barn with criteria including the cleanliness of the stalls and the creativity of their decorations.
The Mary Elizabeth Dunbar Youth Building located in the Corporate Building will also be filled with crafts, baked goods and educational booths, among other things, and is certainly worth a visit.
There are daily livestock shows for fairgoers’ entertainment, along with the 4-H Meat Animal Sale rounding out the week on Saturday, Aug. 2 starting at 10:30 a.m.
For more information about the Cattaraugus County 4-H Program, contact the 4-H office at (716) 699-2377 or email cattaraugus4h@cornell.edu.
From live music to talented animals to high-octane vehicles, there’s new entertainment every day during fair week.
Fair officials stress tickets will be required for all grandstand shows, even the free ones. Visitors who prefer a particular grandstand section or seat or who simply do not want to wait in line can go on the ETIX.com website and reserve seats by following the simple prompts. Tickets can then be printed or shown at the gate on a cellphone.
from page 4
Tickets will also be available for purchase on the day of the show, pending availability.
Grandstand events include:
• Saturday, July 26 – Modified Truck Bull.
• Sunday, July 27 – Broken B Rodeo bull riding, barrel racing and more.
• Monday, July 28 – Demolition Derby.
• Tuesday, July 29 – Tracy Byrd concert with special guest Alex Miller.
• Wednesday, July 30 – Flatland Cavalry concert.
• Thursday, July 31 –WNY Pro Pulling series.
• Friday, Aug. 1 – Monster Truck show.
• Saturday, Aug. 2 – Monster Truck show and Demolition Derby.
There are also several performances on the grounds, which are free with gate admission and take place three or four times daily. They include:
• Sea Lion Splash – Trainers Marco and Philip Peters will have crowds cheering and laughing with sea lions that balance balls, shoot hoops, dance, perform handstands and more.
• Pratt Family Chainsaw Artists – The Pratt family of artists creates quality sculptures, architecture, furniture and attachables with chainsaws.
• Magician Lance Gifford – Gifford is an award-winning magician and entertainer who has been amazing crowds for more than 30 years with amazing magic and spell-binding hypnosis.
• Swifty Swine Racing – This group of pigs travels across the country and races not for the money but the Oreo cookie waiting on a silver platter at the finish line.
• Butterfly Kingdom – An educational exhibit that
hosts 200 to 300 butterflies, including six different species. Fairgoers can learn about a butterfly’s life cycle and
interact with them.
• Dynamo Dogs – This family event includes everything from trick routines to Frisbee acrobatics in this oneof-a-kind canine variety show. The dogs vary in both size and skill, and many have been adopted or rescued.
• Glassblowing Arts –Artist Ryan Gothrup has been a glassblowing educator for over 16 years, teaching a wide variety of students. He’s been using his mobile glass trailer to educate on location for the past seven years.
More information can be found online at cattarauguscofair.com or by calling (716) 938-9146.
By Bob Clark
Whether it’s in the park, on the lawn or by the pond, many area communities will continue their summer concert series this year.
Here’s a list of some of the community music options in the region through the rest of the summer.
The Palmer Opera House will host its annual Music on the Lawn series on Mondays through Aug. 25. Concerts are planned for 6-7:30 p.m. on the lawn at Cuba-Rushford Elementary School. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs or blankets for
the free concert. Concessions, a 50/50 raffle and restrooms will be available. In the event of rain, concerts move to the opera house, at 12 W. Main St. For more information, call (585) 209-5512. Upcoming performances include:
July 28 – Classic rock and Beatles covers by Not Norman
Aug. 2 – Broadway Review
Aug. 4 – Concert band music by the Allegany Alumni Band & Friends.
Aug. 11 – American songbook tunes by NY Standard Time
Aug. 18 – Acoustic covers by The Chumps
Aug. 25 – Steel drums and more from Panloco Steel Band
The Gazebo series, presented by the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Niagara Label Company, is a favorite evening for locals and visitors alike. Lawn chairs, picnic baskets, coolers and even the family pet is welcome. Concerts are from 7-9 p.m. Thursdays. The final performances of the season include:
July 24 – Angel Sun Trio
July 31 – Theresa Quinn Trio
Aug. 7 – Joe Wagner
Aug. 14 – Delaware Band
Aug. 21 – Rabbit Jaw
Fillmore Wide Awake Club Library will host Wednesday evening concerts starting at 7 p.m. at Fillmore Park Pavilion. Remaining concerts for the season include:
July 30 – Chillbillies
Aug. 6 – Dave Weaver, Elvis impersonator
Aug. 13 – Ukuladies
Aug. 20 – Town Theatre of Short Tract
The monthly Music in the Park series will host live music at each event
along with a food truck, games, and prizes for all ages from 6-8 p.m. at Bicentennial Park. For more information on this event please visit https://www. facebook.com/LVHappenings.
The city of Olean’s Youth Bureau and Recreation Department’s Lincoln Park concert series kicked off in May, with 20 concerts scheduled through the summer. The series runs through Sept. 11, with all concerts from 6-8 p.m. in the park unless otherwise noted. In the event of light rain, attendees may sit under the pavilion at the park to listen, but in the event of inclement weather concerts will be rescheduled. Remaining concerts include:
July 24 – Brian Ash (Classic Rock/Alternatives)
July 30 – Stick Tights (replaces canceled May 22 concert)
July 31 – Not Norman (Classic Rock)
Aug. 7 – The Cruisers (Classic Rock)
Aug. 14 – Generations (50s/60s Oldies)
Aug. 21 – LTM Trio (Jazz)
Aug. 23 – Not Norman (Classic Rock) (at Oak Hill Park)
Aug. 24 – Freddy and the Jets (Oldies) (2-4 p.m.)
Aug. 28 – Red Gray (Outlaw Country)
Sept. 4 – Stick Tights (Folk/ Rock)
Sept. 11 – Twin Tiers Community Band (Variety)
Portville
Portville’s Pioneer Park will host the annual Music in the Park series into September. Concerts begin at 6:30 p.m. Upcoming performances include:
July 30 — Bent Brass Band
Aug. 6 — Moonlight Revival (acoustic folk-pop-alternative)
>> Continued from page 6
Aug. 13 — Miss Hoshi’s Trio-MH3 (1920s-2000s Americana)
Aug. 20 — Twin Tiers Community Band
Aug. 27 — Benjamin Piche (guitar jazz)
Sept. 3 — Terry Bellamy (acoustic classics)
Sept. 10 — Interstate Daydream (Rick and Marge)
Wellsville
Music on the Lawn returns to the lawn at the David A. Howe Public Library this summer. Shows begin at 7 p.m. Upcoming performances include:
July 24 – Miller & the Other Sinners
July 30 – Dirt Turtles
Aug. 7 – Wood’s Willow
West Valley
West Valley Volunteer Hose Company is presenting “Music by the Pond” from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Tuesdays through the summer. Admission is free, and hotdogs, soda, water and ice cream available for purchase. Attendees are encouraged to bring beverages and
A couple dances during a summer concert at Olean’s Lincoln Park.
lawn chairs or blankets. Concerts will be moved indoors in the event of rain. For more information on this event please visit https://www.facebook. com/wvvhc
July 29 – Panfil Brothers Trio
Aug. 5 – D&D Duo
Aug. 12 – Home Made Jam
By SARA FURLONG
Take your Johnson, your Mercury, your Evinrude or your camp chairs and your lawn blankets and get to Kinzua Beach this Labor Day weekend, because Kinzua is gonna rock the wake.
From noon to 10 p.m. Aug. 30 and 31 and noon until early evening Labor Day, Sept. 1, championship water ski teams, extreme jet ski stunts and flyboarding acrobatics will amaze on the water, while food trucks, craft breweries and local musicians hit the beach for three exciting days of Kinzua Rocks the Wake.
Organizers at the Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau (ANFVB) called the event “A bold new celebration of summer’s last big weekend … with wild water stunts, chart-topping tribute bands and forest-framed adventure.
“Experience champi-
onship waterskiing and jet ski daredevils by day, then dance under the stars to legendary sounds by night,” the bureau’s press release states.
The Chippewa Lake Water Ski Show Team, one of Ohio’s championship teams known for jaw-dropping tricks, stunts and synchronized pyramids; and Wisconsin’s Ski Extreme freestyle athletes will turn flips, spins and airborne acrobatics approximately every other daylight hour.
Saturday night’s headliner, The Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute featuring Shawn Gerhard will bring all Brooks’ hits to the
beach. Sunday night The Classic Rock Experience will take over, merging anthems from Led Zeppe-
lin, Pink Floyd, Styx and more into “one unforgettable theatrical concert,” organizers said.
“The water shows alone are worth the drive,” ANFVB Executive Director Rustin Lippincott said. “Festivalgoers can catch multiple high-energy performances,” and then, “as the sun sets, the music cranks up.”
Local acoustic acts will
wind things down Monday, the unofficial last day of summer. Any acoustic performers interested in being a part of the festivities should contact the ANFVB at (800) 473-9370.
Lippincott explained that funding for the threeday event was secured through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Big Stage Events Co-Op Grant Program, part of Pennsylvania’s effort to boost tourism by supporting large-scale events that attract overnight visitors.
The closure of the Kinzua Skywalk — McKean County’s top tourist attraction — for maintenance was a leading factor in the development of this new event, as the visitors bureau regrouped and refocused on other ways to promote the area’s resources.
Significant collaboration was required from a number of local groups and organizations, Lippincott said. The ANFVB has partnered with Allegheny
Site Management, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Warren County Visitors’ Bureau and U.S. Forest Service to organize the destination tourism event.
“This has never been done, so we’re all in this together and they’ve been great partners,” he stated.
“One of the things that makes this festival really cool is you’ll be able to see it from both the land and the water. The Kinzua Beach grass area is like an amphitheater and everything’s going to happen right out in the reservoir.”
Food trucks from McKean and Warren counties will be on site all weekend “with festival favorites, sweet treats and creative eats,” the organizers said. Bent Run Brewing of Warren County and Bradford Brew Station of McKean County will pour up craft beers throughout. Other family friendly activities are also planned, making the free event a draw for all ages.
For more information, visit KinzuaRocksTheWake.com.
By Bob Clark
OLEAN — There’s a lot on the docket for the greater Olean area heading into the fall.
The Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce has several events planned before the weather turns to winter.
The Chamber’s second annual Southern Tier Restaurant Week series will return from Aug. 8 into StrOlean on Aug. 16.
Participating Chamber Member restaurants will be offering a specialty item or a specialty menu exclusive to Restaurant Week. This gives Member restaurants a chance to try out a new creation, highlight a favorite, promote their businesses, and welcome new customers.
A booklet will be produced outlining the options from each restaurant including prices. The document will be available at the Chamber’s website, www.oleanny.com/ event-details/southern-tier-restaurant-week-part-ii. Free printed copies can also be picked up at the Chamber Gift Shop, 301 N. Union St., when available.
Diners are also encouraged to enter a drawing for a Chamber gift certificate.
StrOlean, on Aug. 16, is expected to bring in dozens of popup participants, ranging from craft and artisan vendors to
nonprofit groups. Local brick-and-mortar sites will also participate.
StrOlean began in 2017, harkening back to the Farm City Days events once held in the city. The 2023 event attracted more than 40 groups to register as vendors or exhibitors, with thousands walking the corridor to shop and learn.
The Chamber will also host its 119th annual dinner on Oct. 16.
The dinner honors contributions by local businesses and leaders to the Olean area. Awards include the Love of Olean, United in Enterprise (LOUIE), the Eric M. Garvin Presidential Award, and the Enterprising Business Award.
For more information on any Chamber event, contact events@oleanny. com or call (716) 372-4433.
THE CITY OF Olean’s Youth and Recreation department will host the 50th annual City Cup Softball Tournament Aug. 8-10 at Bradner Stadium and Forness Park. Registration is now open for both men’s and women’s teams.
“This tournament means a lot to the community and to the generations of players who’ve competed over the years,” said Bill Bizzaro, men’s tournament director.
“We’d love to see some familiar faces back on the field this year,” said
Mandy Bushnell, women’s tournament director. “Whether you played in the first City Cup or just last year, this is your invitation to help us make the 50th unforgettable.”
The team entry deadline is Friday, Aug. 1 at 4 p.m. The fee is $225 per team, with rosters and payments submitted to the Youth and Recreation Office, Room 109 in the Olean Municipal Building.
For rules or registration information, contact Bill Bizzaro at (716) 378-9420 or Mandy Bushnell at (716) 957-6776.
In addition, officials reported the ice season is expected to start in mid-August at the William O. Smith Recreation Center.
“There’s over 10,000 people who come through these doors -- and that’s
just public ice skating,” Youth and Rec Coordinator Kris Shewairy said, with various youth and college hockey teams calling the facility home from August to April.
For more information on scheduling, visit www. cityofolean.org or visit the city’s Youth and Recreation programs on social media @oleanyouthrec.
A new attraction is also expected to open -- the city’s long-awaited splash park.
Mayor Bill Aiello reported work on the park adjacent to the William O. Smith Recreation Center is set to open in time for this year’s warm weather.
“The new timeline is the end of August. If the weather is nice, we’ll be open into September,” the mayor said.
By SAVANNAH BARR
The sounds of rolling thunder will echo through the Alleghenies as the Kids and Cancer Benefit Run returns July 26. The benefit returns for its 28th year raising hope, awareness and vital funds for local individuals and families in need.
The fun starts July 25 during the pre-run party and motorcycle show. Come out and enjoy some spectacular bikes from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Ace Hardware parking lot, 200 W. Washington St. All types of bikes are welcome. There will be food and drinks, music and prizes. The event is sure to set the mood for the ride to follow.
Registration for the
benefit run begins at 9 a.m in the Zippo parking lot July 26. It is $25 per person or $15 per passenger.
Speaker Lorie Sisler will address the crowd at 11:30 a.m. Sisler is one of the many local cancer survivors who have been helped by Kids and Cancer.
“She has had a very inspiring journey and written a book about her experience,” said Dorie Meabon, of the board of directors. “We thought she would be a perfect person to choose as our speaker this year.”
The Rev. Lee Beckes will perform a Blessing of the Bikes at about 11:45 a.m. Then, kickstands go up promptly at noon. Law enforcement and fire trucks will escort the parade of bikes through downtown Bradford. As is
tradition, locals are expected to line the streets and cheer the bikers on.
“It really is something to see,” said Jim Copeland, of the event committee. “The kids just love to see the bikes and support from the community lining the streets means a lot to the riders.”
This year’s 100-mile run includes fewer stops than in the past, giving participants more time to enjoy good company and the open road.
“Each year we talk to people and try to accommodate their suggestions,” said Copeland. “That is why we decided to have fewer stops.”
The updated route includes stops at the Eldred American Legion, Tubby’s Tavern in Emporium and the Crosby American Legion before bringing riders
back to East Main Street in Bradford for the afterparty.
“This way, people will have enough time to stay and visit each other at each location,” said Meabon. “But they want to be back at 5 p.m. to have their score cards turned in.”
The afterparty event is open to the public, whether they are bikers or not.
“We encourage everyone to come down and enjoy the food and festivities,” said Copeland.
Guests will be able to sign up for the 50/50 drawing or for a chance to win amazing prizes such as this year’s Harley of Hope. This year’s bike is a six-speed 2025 Street Glide in billiard grey. It features a 117 cubic inch liquid cooled motor and fixed
fairing on the front.
“It’s a beautiful machine,” said Copeland.
There is also a custom, one-of-a-kind Case knife up for grabs. In the past, the organization has raffled off a Case Bowie knife, but that model of knife was retired last year. This year’s Kids and Cancer blade is unlike any other.
“What they did for us this year was make a one-off production just for us,” said Copeland. “There will never be another one like it made, so it is pretty special.”
Live music at the event will come from Siren’s Echo, one of the area’s newest and most talked-about local bands.
This year will hopefully
mark a major milestone for the Kids and Cancer committee, as the group expects to surpass its $1 million mark in total donations.
“We are very, very close right now,” said Meabon. “After this event we will tally all the numbers and hopefully be able to make the million-dollar announcement.”
Kids and Cancer donates its money to charities and needy individuals and families who live within a 100-mile radius. While help can take many forms, people usually receive a $500 visa gift card to help with expenses associated with their treatment.
“Sick people and their loved ones have so many expenses that come
up along the way,” said Meabon. “We help with everything from utility bills to groceries, hotel stays and filling up the gas tank to get to and from their treatment.”
And that need is growing each year. Last year, the organization helped 53 families. So far this year, they have already helped 80.
The board meets monthly to analyze and approve aid requests, but they make special arrangements if needed.
“Some of these people have an immediate need that can’t wait for a month and if that is the case we vote online,” said Meabon. “People would be surprised at how many families need our help.”
Kids and Cancer also donates to a long list of local charitable initiatives and organizations. This includes but is not limited to CARE for Children, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Buffalo Children’s Hospital, Muscular Dystrophy Camp for Kids, Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and Ronald McDonald House of Buffalo.
“The entire organization is run by volunteers,” said Copeland. “The money we raise goes right into the hands of the people who need it most.”
Those who need aid can request it by filling out the form at kidsandcancerbenefitrun.com.
By Deb Everts
ELLICOTTVILLE —
Summer may be half over, but the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce and Holiday Valley Resort still have plenty of favorite events scheduled for visitors to enjoy. Some of Ellicottville’s biggest events of the year are yet to come.
Ellicottville’s Gazebo Series began its season July 17, offering people an outdoor, evening activity to look forward to with their friends and family this summer.
Organized by the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce, locals and visitors alike, will have the opportunity to enjoy free, live music performed by some of the region’s most talented artists while relaxing in the village square, on Washington Street, every Thursday night from 7 to 9 p.m.
The rest of this summer’s performances include Angel Sun Trio, July 24; Theresa Quinn Trio, July 31; Joe Wagner, Aug. 7; Delaware Band, Aug. 14; and Rabbit Jaw, Aug. 21.
Jazz & Blues Weekend kicks off July 25 and runs through July 27 when the village will come alive with the syncopated rhythm of jazz and the sultry melodies of the blues. The free, three-day event kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues through
The Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce and Holiday Valley Resort have a number of great entertainment events still coming this summer. With a few still in the planning stages, the chamber is bringing back the favorite events visitors enjoy.
Sunday afternoon, featuring talented jazz and blues performers on the street and at various restaurants, bars, nightclubs and streetside stages.
The event has drawn an impressive lineup of approximately 20 bands each year for over 25 years. For a complete list of scheduled performances, visit ellicottvilleny. com and click on the “Live Music” tab.
Holiday Valley will hold its 5th annual 42 North HillTap Festival — “Sunshine, Songs, & Suds” — July 26 from noon to
mately 20 of the best local restaurants. Experience some of the signature dishes of the local culinary talent in Ellicottville’s walkable 4-block village. Taste awards will be judged in multiple categories, including the ever-popular Kids’ Choice Award.
Take a step back in time when Rock ‘n’ Roll was king, the greaser look was in and their cars were hotrods. Feel the rhythm of the beat at Ellicottville’s annual “Rock ‘n’ Roll Weekend” event, Sept. 12 through Sept. 14.
9 p.m. at Spruce Lake. Enjoy a full day of outdoor adventure atop the mountain.
Relax to the tunes of Leroy Townes Band, 1-4 p.m. (Spruce Lake Cabin Stage); Kody & Herren Band, 4-5:30 p.m. (Tannenbaum Stage); and Uncle Ben’s Remedy, 6-8:30 p.m. (Tannenbaum Stage). Tickets are available online at hilltapfestival.com.
Food lovers will flock to the Taste of Ellicottville on Aug. 9 and 10 to sample a smorgasbord of mouth-watering, delicious foods created by approxi-
For over 25 years, the one-of-a-kind event has drawn music lovers and motor enthusiasts from all over the region. More than 15 regional bands will perform, for free, in the village’s bars and restaurants, creating an electric atmosphere all weekend long, including an outdoor performance Saturday.
The popular Car and Truck Show caps off the weekend on Sunday with over 250 vehicles set up along Washington, Monroe and Jefferson streets from noon to 5 p.m. Proud owners will have classic and antique “rides” all shined up and polished to be judged by a panel of experienced car enthusiasts with awards in each class.
Tickets to Ellicottville’s summer events can be purchased through the chamber’s website at ellicottvilleny.com.
By MARCIE SCHELLHAMMER
Maybe school students and teachers aren’t excited about the approach of August, but tourists and fans of the Kinzua Bridge State Park sure are.
Aug. 8 is the date the world-famous Kinzua Bridge Skywalk reopens for the season.
It’s part of a rehabilitation project by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The project, which will be completed in 2027, will include removing the decking and railroad ties to access the towers, adding and replacing steel in sections where thinning has occurred, reinstalling railroad ties and decking, installing new plexiglass for the viewing area, replacing the handrails and blasting clean and painting all of the steel portions of the skywalk.
The closure began in November. DCNR officials had said, “The work was planned after a structural safety inspection determined that, while the skywalk remains safe, it needs some maintenance to ensure its longevity.”
While the project will carry through for two more years, the DCNR had built in tourist time for the fall foliage season at the park. Visitors flock to the Pennsylvania Wilds to enjoy the magnificent colors of fall, and the Kinzua Skywalk is a spectacular spot from which to see the valley and its autumn display.
The Kinzua Bridge Fall Festival will be held in September, an event held annually by the Kinzua Bridge Foundation.
Throughout the project, the Kinzua Bridge Visitor Center remains open.
According to the state DCNR, the original viaduct was built of iron, starting in 1881 with the placement of the stone piers and completed in 1882 — taking only 94 working days.
When finished, the Kinzua Bridge Viaduct was the highest railroad viaduct in the world. It was constructed as an alternative to laying an additional eight miles of track over rough terrain along the line leading to McKean County’s coal, timber, and oil lands.
The original iron viaduct was approximately 301 feet high, 2,053 feet long, and weighed 3,105,000 pounds. The towers were a patented design called Phoenix Columns. The columns were lighter in weight and had greater strength than cast iron columns of similar shape and size.
By 1900, it became necessary to rebuild the entire structure with steel to accommodate heavier trains.
Later that year, about 100 to 150 men, working 10hour shifts, completed the job in 105 days. The new steel viaduct had the same measurements, but now weighed 6,706,000 pounds.
Freight traffic discontinued during 1959.
During 1963, Gov. William Scranton signed a law
that created Kinzua Bridge State Park. The park officially opened during 1970. Kinzua Viaduct received national recognition when it was placed on the National Register of Historic Civil Engineering Landmarks during 1977.
Beginning during 1987, excursion trains traveled from Marienville through the Allegheny National Forest, stopping on Kinzua Viaduct before returning to their point of origin.
During February 2002, DCNR engineers decided the structure needed a fullscale inspection. During the inspection engineers found sections of steel were rusted through, and trains were barred from the bridge. Then, during August, the bridge was closed to all traffic, including pedestrians.
Engineers determined high winds could create lateral pressure on the bridge, causing it to shift the center of gravity, thus increasing the weight on one side. Such an event could send the whole bridge crashing to the bot-
tom of the Kinzua Creek Valley.
Beginning in February, 2003, W. M. Brode Co. of Newcomerstown, Ohio, a national leader in railroad bridge construction and repair, began working to restore Kinzua Viaduct.
On Monday, July 21, 2003, at approximately 3:15 p.m., an F1 tornado (wind speed 73 – 112 mph) struck the side of Kinzua Viaduct. Eleven towers from the center of the bridge were torn from their concrete bases and thrown to the valley floor. The viaduct was not rebuilt for a third time. Instead, the fallen towers were shorn up where they had fallen, the standing towers were repaired and the bridge was reimagined as a Skywalk. A pedestrian walkway (skywalk) leads to a 225-foot high observation deck that gives a towering view of the Kinzua Creek Valley.
A partial glass floor in the deck reveals a breathtaking glimpse into the steel structure of the bridge.
By Deb Everts
Take a step back to nature and spend a day or two at Allegany State Park (ASP), New York’s largest state park with 65,000 acres of gorgeous scenery.
Open year-round, ASP offers a multitude of outdoor activities for every season and every taste. Thousands of people think of the park as their second home, especially during the summer months.
The park is divided into two developed sections — Red House and Quaker Run. The Red House and Quaker areas of the park connect to one another within the park limits via ASP routes 1, 2 and 3. There is plenty to do in both areas and visitors should explore both sides of the park.
Visitors have the opportunity to experience many activities at the park, including camping, bird watching and naturalist walks, fishing, hunting, boating, picnicking and horseback riding, as well as biking and hiking on the park’s 18 trails that cover more than 35 miles.
Three have been developed for self-guided nature trails. In addition to the lake and its beach area, attractions also include Stone Tower, Summit Fire Tower, Bridal Falls and the Art Roscoe Ski Area.
The Friends of Allegany State Park and the Allegany State Park Historical Society work in collaboration to preserve the park and keep the park’s history alive for future generations.
After nine long years of restoration, the historic Red House sawmill is now an Allegany State Park destination, giving visitors the opportunity to learn how lumber was processed long ago at the park. The Friends of Allegany completed renovations and officially opened the mill last year, in May.
Over the past three
years, the Friends and the historical society have joined forces for the betterment of the park and its patrons. Members of both groups staff the park’s Summit Fire Tower, Saturdays from 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., and Red House Saw Mill, Sundays from 10 a.m. to noon, from mid-spring through mid-fall.
Visitors know they have arrived at the Red House area when they
see beautiful Red House Lake with the English Tudor-style administration building sitting on a hill overlooking the lake. Housed in the building is Park Restaurant, a natural history museum, regional headquarters and a gift shop.
While visiting the Red House area, enjoy a
stroll on the boardwalk constructed in a 15-acre segment of the wetlands below the Red House Lake dam and spillway. The walk features three viewing areas, including a duck and wildlife blind. The Boyer Bridge by the Red House entrance toll booth leads to an interesting conservation trail.
The Quaker area has plenty to offer as well, including the lake with its beach and bathhouse, multi-purpose room and playground on the grounds. Other attractions include Science Lake, Mount Tuskarora Fire Tower, the Bear Caves and Thunder Rocks. Quaker Amphitheater hosts the Summer Concert Series with music from every
genre imaginable. July concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. and August concerts start at 6:30 p.m.
On Aug. 12, guest presenter Bernadette Scott will be at the Quaker Picnic Shelter at 1 p.m. As a Haudenosaunee (Seneca) woman and a member of the Deer Clan from the Cattaraugus Territory, she comes from a family wellknown in the community for teaching, sharing and making traditional Seneca (no-face) cornhusk dolls, flowers, baskets and Haudenosaunee social dancing.
The popular summer Beach Party will take place Friday, Aug. 15, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Red House Beach. The event will feature live music by Kevin McCarthy
>> Continued from page 22
from 7 to 9 p.m., as well as kids’ activities, games and a sand castle contest.
Park visitors looking for adventure or learning something new should check out over 50 different programs and special events presented by the Environmental Education and Recreation Department every week during the months of July and August.
Recreational opportunities include volleyball, four-square, pickleball and kickball, as well as kayaking, paddleboarding and mountain biking instruction by certified instructors.
A federal and state licensed bird bander is on staff who offers an upclose opportunity to see
the birds of the park. The environmental education programs offer a glimpse into some of the most popular animals and plants in the park. Nature jewelry and watercolor programs are also offered, along with nature crafts for kids, summer camp crafts and story time.
For more information on park programs, visit facebook.com/alleganystatepark or stop by the Red House or Quaker Rental offices for a weekly schedule.
ASP offers hundreds of campsites and cabins, as well as several group camps, for rental. To reserve a cabin or campsite, contact Reserve America online at newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com.
By MARCIE SCHELLHAMMER
What determines the reaches of your imagination?
This summer, visit the Dark Sky areas of Potter and Cameron counties where not even the sky’s the limit.
Potter County’s Cherry Springs State Park is consistently rated one of the best places on the planet for stargazing.
From its website, “Due to its exceptionally dark skies, Cherry Springs State Park is one of the best places on the eastern seaboard for stargazing and the science of astronomy, which is the study and observation of planets, nebulae, galaxies, stars and other heavenly bodies.
“A dark night sky is a natural resource, just like plants, waterways, and wildlife. Recognizing this unique resource needed to be managed and protected, during 2000, DCNR declared Cherry Springs State Park its first Dark Sky Park.”
The field is at the top of a 2,300-foot high mountain — the surrounding state forest is relatively undeveloped and nearby communities are in valleys, shielding any light that might affect the park.
The location of the park, 41.6501 degrees north, 77.8164 degrees west, offers a great view of the nucleus of the Milky Way Galaxy. The astronomy field offers an excellent 360 degree view of the night sky. All lighting in the park is shielded and all white light has been converted to red.
When it gets too crowded at Cherry Springs, park staff have sent viewers to Cameron County, where the Dark Sky Park is open while it is in development. It is available for stargaz-
ing along with viewing wildlife and enjoying nature.
Changes and updates will continue to be added, like a pavilion and hilltop viewing area yet to come. “There are plans for connecting trails that lead you from the pavilion to the hilltop viewing area, as well as trails around that lead you to bike trails, gravel biking, hiking trails, and winter access for snowmobiles. The pavilion is planned to be used for events and educational purposes.
“The pavilion will have dark sky friendly lighting and will be a gathering space for all,” its website stated. “The overall goals of the park are to keep the area dark and quiet for the best stargazing and wild-
life viewing opportunities, and to focus on night sky viewing activities.”
The organization Look Up Cameron County is all about preserving Dark Skies. “Our mission is to create a space for people to come together to view the night skies with no artificial light. Our Dark Sky Park is open to the public and is up May Hollow Road on Lookout Lane. The space is a reclaimed landfill, which makes for a lot of land and space for wildlife and dark sky viewings.”
Directions to the site are as follows: Travel up May Hollow road for about 3.41 miles past the Emporium Overlook. Continue straight through the stop sign. Continue straight for 2.19 miles and make a right onto Landfill Lane. Continue one mile to the parking destination.
The park is currently open to the public and there are Dark Sky Viewing Parties in the summer with telescopes so you can see the stars up close.
By BRIAN McCLELLAN
MACHIAS — Conceived as a memorial for Civil War veterans, the Cattaraugus County Museum and Research Library was dedicated in September 1914, and many of whom were present at its dedication.
As such, the museum remains a repository of many Civil War artifacts, as well as many other items representing the county’s history.
The original museum was constructed in Little Valley, across the street from the Cattaraugus County Center on Court Street. In 2004, it was moved to the newly restored Stone House in Machias, located at 9824 Route 16.
While the museum features several permanent displays dealing with Native Americans, the Civil War and early life in Cattaraugus County, temporary exhibits
are rotated twice a year, giving visitors an opportunity to view more of the museum’s widely varied collections. Currently on display is an exhibit of wedding dresses worn by county residents over the past century.
Also available is an interactive kiosk showcasing the museum’s “Our Veterans, Their Stories” project, with recorded oral histories of veterans from Cattaraugus County available to view.
Currently featured among the museum’s displays is the recently restored regimental flag of the 37th New York Volunteer Infantry. The flag had been captured at the Battle of Chancellorsville and was discovered by Union soldiers hanging as a trophy of war in the Confederate senate chamber, displayed over the chair of Confederate Vice President Alexander Stephens.
Among the earliest of the museum’s collections,
the flag hung on display for decades until it was taken down in the 1970s due to deterioration. Beginning in 2020, students at the Garmin Art Conservation Department at Buffalo State College took on the enormous task of conserving the flag. A short film on the flag’s history and restoration can be found on the museum’s YouTube channel.
For the past 15 years, the museum has hosted the Summer at the Stone House event series, which runs on the second and fourth Thursday, June through August. Programs are held under an event tent on the museum lawn and begin at 7 p.m. In recognition of the bicentennial of the Erie Canal, the museum will host two programs on the storied waterway this summer. All programs are free and open to the public.
Upcoming events include:
• July 24 — Allen Hopkins, “Music of the Erie Canal”
• Aug. 14 — Steph Adams, “Bicentennial Basics of the Erie Canal”
• Aug. 28 — Jeanette Sheliga, “Between the Census Years (genealogy presentation)”
The museum also houses the county’s research library and boasts many resources for researchers and genealogists. The county historian is available to assist with research requests for those who cannot make it in person. She can be reached at scfellows@ cattco.org.
The museum’s regular hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday. There are also special weekend hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the third Saturday, May through October. Admission to the museum is free.
For more information, call (716) 353-8200 or email bjmcclellan@cattco. org.
By MARCIE SCHELLHAMMER
Visitors will flock to Kinzua Bridge State Park this fall for a chance at using the Skywalk, which has been closed since last year for some maintenance work.
Giving visitors even more to celebrate, the Kinzua Bridge Foundation will host the 26th Annual Fall Festival at the park.
The always popular event will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 20 and 21 — right about the time that the gorgeous colors of autumn start to transform the park into a multi-hued spectacle of nature’s glory. Foundation President
Jason J. Hughes said, “We offer fun activities for the whole family, as well as food and craft vendors for shopping. We are still finalizing some of our vendors and events, like a model train exhibit, horse
rides with 4H, bow shooting with the PA Game Commission, possible chainsaw art demonstration and more.”
While at the park, remember to stop by the Visitor Center. Not only
is it filled with interactive exhibits about the park and its history, it also has a Pennsylvania Wilds Conservation Shop. The shop features items specific to the area, and products from the PA Wilds Cooperative, made by local artisans.
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has had the viaduct and the Kinzua Creek trail directly below it closed since last fall. A multi-year preservation and rehabilitation project has been underway on the bridge. Plans are for the structure to be open to the public beginning Aug. 8 for the fall foliage season.
By SAVANNAH BARR
The sights, sounds and unmistakably delicious aromas of Italian heritage will once again fill Festival Way during the 2025 Festa Italiana, set for August 7 to 9.
The beloved community event will once more feature homemade delicacies, live entertainment and memories to last a lifetime. Not only a celebration of culture, this festival is a heartfelt community fundraiser that has given back to dozens of local organizations over the last 30 years.
“I think many people may not realize that all the money we raise during this festival goes back to local sports teams and organizations like the United Way, YWCA and Zonta Club,” said Mary Ann Colestro-McCalla, president of the Festa Italiana Committee.
In 2024 alone, more than 50 organizations and school athletic programs received donations from Festa proceeds.
“We basically only hold back enough money to pay our bills, keep the lights on and keep going another year,” said Colestro-McCalla. “This is an important way that we help support and strengthen our local community.”
From now until the day of the festival, members of the LaStella Auxiliary will be handcrafting the delicious Italian treats that help make Festa Italiana so deliciosa. They will make
File photo
Italian-American Stan Pecora has opened nearly every Festa Italiana for about 40 years on Festival Way in Bradford, and will do it again Aug. 7.
everything from pizzelle to cannoli, to Italian cream cake and more. In addition, there will be meatball sandwiches, sausage sandwiches, eggplant sandwiches, fried dough, hot pepper salad, pasta fagioli, antipasto salad, rigatoni and bruschetta.
“The ladies put their heart and soul into this year after year,” said Colestro-McCalla. “What better way to share Italian culture than through food?”
The celebration kicks
off during the opening ceremony slated for 5:30 p.m. Aug. 7. It will once again be hosted by longtime emcee and LaStella Lodge member Stan Pecora.
“What can I say, Stan has done this for a number of years and everyone associates it with him,” said Colestro-McCalla. “We’re happy to have him back again.”
Live music begins at 6 p.m. with the OCTaves, a seventeen-piece big band that will cover oldies music and contempo-
rary pieces. They will be followed by Darkwater Duo performing from 8 to 11 p.m.
On Aug. 8 from 1 to 4 p.m. Jim Ronan will get the party started with his performance of stripped down classics and timeless favorites. Later, at 5 p.m. will be Marshmellow Overcoat with their version of classic rock hits. The night closes out with Two for Flinching, who will play a high-energy set of ’90s pop, rock and dance music from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
On Aug. 9, the fun kicks off at 11 a.m with a fashion show hosted by Small Town Girl Boutique. At noon, the smooth sounds of Tony Farina will fill the air through 4 o’clock, as he channels legends like Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett and Perry Cuomo. Sirens Echo will take the stage from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. playing a mix of classic rock, country, pop and blues.
Finally, Nerds Gone Wild will return to Bradford to take the stage from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. The popular party band will play beloved new wave and classic ’80s hits.
“They were such a huge hit last year and we knew we had to bring them back again,” said Colestro-McCalla. “I have never seen the beer tent as packed as I did during their performance.”
Capping the festival, fireworks will go up at 10 p.m.
“We know everyone loves the fireworks so we had to bring that back again,” said Colestro-McCalla.
The Festa Italiana is a group effort between the Festa Italiana Committee, LaStella Auxiliary, LaStella Lodge and Italian American Progressive Club.
Youth participation is also central to the effort. Athletes from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford make a yearly effort to man the booths at the festival, even though it means cutting their summer break short.
“They actually come back to campus early every
year to work our food and game booths,” said Colestro-McCalla. “They’re really integral to what we do.
Though the public experiences a three-day event, the planning spans a full year. As soon as one festival is done, organizers start thinking about the next one.
“There really aren’t too many days that go by that I am not thinking about the Italian Festival,” said Colestro-McCalla. “Our team is very dedicated because this takes a lot of hard work.”
She credits the other members of the Italian Festival Committee with helping to keep her focused. Including Colestro-McCalla, the group is made up
of Joe Leo, Matt Monago, Dick and Patty Colosimo, Judy Brown, Sofia Bednez, Mario Lombardi, Brandon LaBrozzi, Randy Bevivino and Greg Benedict.
“Some of these people have been doing this for decades at this point and I don’t know where I would be without them,” said Colestro-McCalla, who has her own fond childhood memories of attending the Italian Festival. She hopes to share those memories with the younger generation.
“I want my children and grandchildren to have those same special moments that I did growing up,” said Colestro-McCalla. “I was never more proud to be Italian than the week of the Italian Festival.”
July 27 — Spend a Sunday afternoon in Angelica’s Park Circle when Shake On the Lake presents Shakespeare’s drama “The Tempest” a 3 p.m. A little off-beat but always entertaining, this misfit Shakespearean theater troupe’s rendition of this classic is free to the public, but donations are appreciated.
July 30 — On a balmy evening sit on the lawn of the David A. Howe Library in Wellsville starting at 6:30 p.m. when Shake On the Lake presents its version of William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.” Bring chairs or blankets to watch these young professionals as they offer a quick rendition of the famous play.
Aug. 3 — 34th annual Street Classics Car and Motorcycle Show, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fireman’s Park in Allegany. Features live music, food vendors, raffles and lots of great vehicles and motorcycles.
Aug. 2-3 In the town where history lives the 55th annual Angelica Heritage Days will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Park Circle. During the day there will be live music, walking tours, a basket raffle, arts and crafts, an antique market, displays of antique machinery and classic cars. Both afternoons there will be quilt show in the Grange building. All eyes will be on the clay bed of the croquet court in the park throughout where old and new players will compete for glory in this century old contest. There will be events to delight
the entire family and, in the evening, there will be music and dancing.
Aug. 8-10 50th anniversary City Cup Softball Tournament at Forness Park and Bradner Stadium.
Aug. 8-9 — A car show and yard sales highlight the Amity Daze Celebration in Belmont sponsored by the Rotary. There will be athletic contests, food vendors and more when this annual event gets underway throughout the village. There will be music and entertainment and a movie in the park in front of the library and games in Wilmac Park.
Aug. 16 Summer Craft Fest at the Olean Town Fire Department, 1297 Old Rock City Road, 50/50, auction and dunk tank featuring members of the fire department. Event benefits the department.
Aug. 23 — 3rd Annual Karnival along with 120th anniversary celebration to benefit the SPCA in Cattaraugus County, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with basket raffles, dunk tank, games and prizes.
Aug. 23 Bash by the
Creek 4, benefits the Franklinville Volunteer Fire Department, beginning at noon with live music.
Sept. 1 The dates for the annual Rushford Labor Day celebration had yet to be announced, but Labor Day is on Monday, Sept. 1, and the theme for this year’s event is Outer Space.
Traditionally events take place over the weekend leading up to the annual Labor Day Parade and fireworks display. There vendors, concerts, carnival rides, book and school supplies giveaways, a car show and demolition derby that take place in and around Legion Park.
Look for information on performers and performances by the Rushford Concert Band in their antique band wagon. The space-themed parade featuring units from around the area and floats celebrating families, organizations and businesses takes place on Monday at 10 a.m. followed by a chicken barbecue to support Cuba-Rushford seniors and
other entertainment.
Sept. 5 Read Between the Wines, hosted by Friends of the Olean Library, 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the library. Wine tastings, food, raffles and live music.
Sept. 10 Park under the shade trees when the 10th Annual AOH Park ‘N the Park car show in Wellsville takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free to spectators with more than 200 vehicles on display. There will be food and vendors and a variety of prizes.
Sept. 20-21 — The annual Cuba Garlic Festival sponsored by the Cuba Chamber of Commerce will take place at the historic Block Barn on the grounds of Empire Farms on South Street. Parking is available onsite and shuttles run from Main Street to the site. No pets are allowed. Purchase $8 tickets at the gate.
This event celebrates all things garlic from garlic growing seminars and braiding, and workshops to a special garlic market and cooking demonstrations. There will also be music and other performances, crafts and events for children. 140 vendors are lined up for this year’s event. The Garlic King and Queen will promenade on the grounds.
September TBA — Hear the drums, feel the heat, smell the cannon and gunfire as the 136th Ironclad Reenactors bring the Civil War Reenactment to Main Street in Angelica. There is no admission for this event which takes place on a weekend yet to be determined.
By Kellen M. Quigley
SALAMANCA — The Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino has a wide variety of performers on in slate to entertain the Seneca Allegany Events Center through the rest of this summer and into the fall.
The casino will welcome a special performance of Terry Bradshaw: The Terry Bradshaw Show at 100% at 7 p.m. July 26. Bradshaw is a multi-talented superstar and legendary Hall of Fame quarterback who guided the Pittsburgh Steelers to four Super Bowl titles in six years, earning him a place among the game’s greats.
In his live stage show, Bradshaw entertains the crowd with his dynamic singing ability, endearing personality, and charisma in a 70-minute show that recounts his life’s journey. The production showcases Bradshaw’s vocal talents, award-winning storytelling style and the same straight-shooting humor
that has made Bradshaw an all-time favorite. Tickets start at $40.
The summer air is going to be filled with the sounds of legendary music as Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino brings a remarkable outdoor concert to the stage when Lonestar and Montgomery Gentry, featuring Eddie Montgomery, will perform Aug. 29. Lonestar has charted more than 20 songs on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, including a remarkable nine No. 1 hits. Their single “Amazed” also charted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, at the time becoming the first country song to achieve that feat in almost 20 years. Lonestar will be joined by Montgomery Gentry, featuring Eddie Montgomery. Montgomery Gentry was a powerhouse duo that delivered five No. 1 Country hits and more than 20 charted singles. After Troy Gentry died in a helicopter crash in 2017, Montgomery has kept the duo’s legacy alive, touring and sharing Montgomery
Gentry’s music and spirit with fans everywhere. Tickets start at $20.
As the fall colors begin to decorate the surrounding hills, Bret Michaels will perform in the event center at 8 p.m. Sept. 20. Michaels is one of the leading singer-songwriters from the glam metal era of the 1980s and ‘90s.
The Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino will host Bret Michaels on the Event Center stage on Sept. 20.
fighting surface in combat sports. Tickets start at $45.
As lead singer of the band Poison, Michaels wrote and gave voice to some of the time period’s most successful and memorable hits, including “Talk Dirty to Me,” “Fallen Angel,” and the ultimate ‘80s power ballad, “Every Rose Has Its Thorn.” Away from the band, Michaels has released several solo recordings, including the soundtrack to the motion picture “A Letter from Death Row,” in which he also starred. Tickets start at $50.
Then, the resort will host a Bare Knuckle Boxing card at 7 p.m. Sept. 27. Bare Knuckle Boxing (BKB) is the world’s largest and oldest bare knuckle fighting promotion. BKB cards feature power, speed, athleticism, and non-stop action. Fights are held in the patented Trigon ring, which features the smallest
Other upcoming performances and events at Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino include:
• Oct. 25 – Aaron Lewis & The Stateliners. Tickets start at $50.
• Nov. 7 – Ron White. Tickets start at $50.
• Nov. 8 – Dwight Yoakam. Tickets start at $55.
To purchase tickets, Seneca Resorts & Casinos uses all paperless ticketing for all events at all of its properties. Tickets may be purchased online at senecaalleganycasino.com or ticketmaster.com. Tickets may also be purchased in person at The Logo Shop inside Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino. A secure link, sent by either email or text, allows guests to save tickets to their phone or mobile device.
For hiking in any season of the year, the Twin Tiers area that includes Cattaraugus and McKean counties offers so many trail opportunities that one might not be able to traverse them all in a lifetime of trekking.
Cattaraugus County offers a variety of state forest hiking trails, including the adjoining Rock City and McCarty Hill state forests as well as Elkdale and East Otto state forests.
In addition to trail networks and loops within the boundaries of the state forests, “through trails” —
the Finger Lakes Trail and the North Country Scenic Trail — both wind through Cattaraugus County and can add lengthier outings for those who are committed to more intense treks.
Allegany State Park alone offers numerous trails — from easy jaunts to steadily more challenging routes, from the Osgood Trail to the Beehunter and Mount Tuscarora trails. Thunder Rocks Trail, very short and easy, is also mentioned because of its access to amazing boulders looming in the forest.
The North Country
Trail also crosses from Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest into New York’s Allegany State Park, while the Finger Lakes Trail can also be accessed in ASP.
Other great trail opportunities in Cattaraugus County include:
• The Pat McGee Trail: A multi-use trail that connects Salamanca and Cattaraugus and follows a flat route, making for easier walking and biking.
• Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area includes the Valentine Flats associated trails as well as the Holcomb Pond Trail system running between the Holcomb Pond parking lot and the Ross Pond parking lot.
The trail drops down from the road steadily through a mixed hemlock/hardwood forest and around ponds before looping back up to the road. Hikers must stay on
the marked trail, away from the edge of the gorge. There is no gorge or creek access from this trail.
The Forty Road parking area is located at the end of Forty Road in the town of Persia.
This lot provides easy access to the South Branch of Cattaraugus Creek and offers a short, universally accessible trail leading from the parking area to a scenic overlook at the old bridge abutment. Due to private land upstream, hiking is permitted downstream only.
While in the Zoar Valley area — particularly if going down into the gorge and along the creek — is important to be aware of the weather and creek-level conditions.
• Allegheny River Valley Trail is a very popular
and accessible paved trail around Olean and Allegany.
IN MCKEAN COUNTY and beyond in Pennsylvania, again, trail opportunities seem almost endless — not least because part of the Allegheny National Forest covers so much of the area.
The ANF, of course, receives a lot of attention as hiking areas that include the Tracy Ridge trail network lie within McKean County. The North Country Trail also passes through the ANF and McKean County.
One doesn’t have to trek the length of the NCT to enjoy it — out and back hikes can be planned and suited to any hiker’s abilities and there are multiple
parking-access points to the trail within the ANF. Also within the ANF are the Morrison Hiking Trail system as well as the nearby Rimrock Hiking Trail.
Some other hiking experiences that should be considered “can’t miss” in McKean County:
• Knox & Kane Rail Trail connects various points in the area, including Lantz Corners and Kinzua Bridge State Park, home to the Kinzua Skywalk and the Kinzua Creek Trail, offering scenic views and access to the valley below.
The Skywalk has been closed to the public due
to continuing rehab work on the former Kinzua Bridge structure, but the will be reopened for the later summer and fall seasons on Aug. 8.
Recreation Area in the ANF.
• The Kinzua Valley Trail is is suitable for hiking and biking, following the Kinzua Creek from the Guffey parking area to the Red Bridge
• The Tuna Valley Trails in and around Bradford provide a network of five trails offering options for walkers and hikers — from those looking for an easy stroll to hikers seeking challenging routes through forest and along beautiful streams and brooks.
Mon., Wed., Fri. 9am-8pm, Sat. 9am-5pm
Magnite Key Features:
• 30% lighter than 6061 aluminum
• Stronger than carbon
• 20x more vibration dampening than commercial grade carbon, 3x more vibration dampening than 6061 aluminum
• Trusted and used in the defense and aerospace industries
Authorized Dealer
Authorized Dealer
