The weather is getting "Springy" or, at least a little warmer and I find my self thinking of gardening, camping and barbecuing. I also can't help but dream of all the little jaunts to take from home when the weather is fine, in the Summertime. One of our favorites, and almost annual, road trips is to Rock City in Olean, NY. This is an easy hike through 315 million year old rocks that formed into what is now known as the largest exposure of quartz conglomerate. The water that ran through this area millions of years ago and the freezing and thawing formed cracks and fissures and now we can climb in and around these on an easy 45 minute hike (my daughter managed at 3 years old with no problem). We always love sneaking through the crevices and jumping over the cracks. There is also a store, snack stand and picnic tables to enjoy. The natural beauty and fun formations of the rocks make this a great little hike but the drive is long so we, usually, try to pack something else in while in town. One of our favorite local things to do when in Olean is squirrel hunting! "Woodland in the City" statues of around 30 squirrels adorn the streets, parks and businesses and we set out to find them all. Quite a few are in walking distance of each other but others we had to drive to. The kids loved the hunt and we all had pictures with our favorite squirrels.
Another spot, south of Buffalo, that boasts hiking and statues and fun is Griffis Sculpture Park. The art and the trails are very different than the previous itinerary and, certainly more vast. The 450 acre park in Ashford Hollow, began in the 1960s when Larry Griffis Jr. had a vision of a place that offered creative and artistic ideals, along with a sense of fun and play. The park has over 250 sculptures, with many created by Larry Griffis Jr. himself. The kids (of all ages) are welcome to climb in, on and around the sculptures and the park has miles of hiking trails scattered with more art to find. Pack the camera, a water bottle, some snacks and a sense of adventure and enjoy the vastness of this park.
These are just 2 of the great places in WNY that offer hikes and fun with art. Wether you are looking for something just around the corner or, maybe, around the world, let us know at Stowaway Travels and we will help you find the perfect places and book the best adventures!