Ellicottville Brewing Co. to Host Live Snow Sculpture Celebrating Cattaraugus County Trail System
Award-winning artist Eric Jones brings winter art to life this week at EBC’s Little Valley location
Pictured: Artist Eric Jones with one of his past creations.
LITTLE VALLEY - With winter conditions delivering some of the best riding weather of the season, Ellicottville Brewing Company is inviting the public to celebrate one of Cattaraugus County’s greatest winter assets: its extensive snowmobile trail network.
Later this week, the brewery will host award-winning sculptor Eric Jones, who will create a snowmobile-themed sculpture on-site at Ellicottville Brewing Company’s production facility and pub in Little Valley. The live art installation is intended to spotlight the more than 450 miles of groomed snowmobile trails that crisscross the county and draw winter enthusiasts to the Enchanted Mountains region each year.
“We’ve been incredibly fortunate with snow conditions lately, and it really showcases just how special the trail system is here,” said Dan Minner, head brewmaster at Ellicottville Brewing Company. “This felt like the perfect opportunity to bring people together, celebrate winter, and highlight an asset that so many riders and local businesses rely on.”
Ellicottville Brewing Company has operated its Little Valley production facility since 2018 and expanded the location in 2022 with the opening of its pub and restaurant. Situated trailside along the Pat McGee Trail (C2A), the space was designed with snowmobilers in mind, offering convenient trail access alongside brick-oven pizzas, beer-battered fish fries, and a full lineup of craft brews.
Minner said the event is also meant to recognize the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the trail system running strong. “The amount of time, effort, and dedication that local clubs, volunteers, and statewide associations put into maintaining these trails is truly impressive,” he said. “It’s something that deserves to be seen and appreciated.”
Jones is expected to begin work on the sculpture by Thursday, with completion timing dependent on weather and conditions. Known for his large-scale and highly detailed snow creations, Jones’ work is anticipated to become a temporary winter landmark for riders passing through the area.
Ellicottville Brewing Company’s Little Valley pub is located at 202 Second Street and is open Thursday from 4:00-9:00pm and Friday through Sunday from 11:30am-9:00pm. Visitors are encouraged to stop in, view the sculpture in progress, and enjoy the trails, hospitality, and winter atmosphere that make Cattaraugus County a four-season destination.