Summer Starting Line: Top June Races Near Ellicottville Include Elisa’s Run and Holiday Valley Mudslide
Summer Starting Line: Top June Races Near Ellicottville Include Elisa’s Run and Holiday Valley Mudslide
From a meaningful community 5K supporting local arts scholarships to a muddy mountain obstacle race, these June events offer fitness, fun, and fresh air for participants of all ages.
From meaningful memorial runs to muddy obstacle courses, summer races in and around Ellicottville offer far more than just a finish line. These events bring together fitness, fundraising, family fun, and a chance to adventure in the outdoors. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, supporting a good cause, or simply looking for an excuse to get together with friends and take in some fresh air, here are two upcoming races to add to your June calendar.
ELISA’S RUN FOR THE ARTS
June 13 @ Virtual and In-Person
If there’s one event on this list that perfectly blends movement with meaning, it’s Elisa’s Run for the Arts. Now marking ten years since the passing of Elisa Hughey from cancer, this annual 5k continues to celebrate a life defined by creativity, quiet strength, and a deep love for the arts.
Elisa wasn’t someone who sought the spotlight, but her impact has continued to shine through the scholarship created in her memory. Since 2017, the Elisa B. Hughey Scholarship for the Arts has supported students and community projects in Ellicottville and across Cattaraugus County, funding everything from individual scholarships to local art programs and creative initiatives.
The run itself is intentionally flexible, making it one of the most accessible events around. Participants can gather in person locally for a group run with the Hughey family, or take part virtually from wherever they are - running, walking, biking, or simply getting outside and moving in their own way. It’s less about competition and more about participation, reflection, and connection.
“As always, we are deeply grateful for you - our incredible community of friends and family - who continue to help us keep Elisa Hughey’s artistic spirit alive through the Elisa B. Hughey Scholarship for the Arts,” said Brenda Hughey, Elisa’s sister. “Elisa was never one for the limelight, but we believe she would be proud of the good that has been accomplished in her memory.”
Since 2017, Elisa’s Run for the Arts and the Elisa B. Hughey Scholarship Fund have awarded over $14,000 in art scholarships to 17 students across Cattaraugus County, NY. In addition, $7,000 in grants has been applied towards school and community art projects, art classes, and local artists.
For virtual participants, feel free to share a photo of your run on the event’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Elisasrun) or email it to hugheyb1@gmail.com to be part of the collective experience. And for anyone who wants to support the mission beyond race day, contributions to the scholarship fund are always welcome at http://bit.ly/elisa-hughey-fund-for-the-arts.
HOLIDAY VALLEY MUDSLIDE
June 20 @ Yodeler Lodge
If your idea of a good time includes trail running, obstacle courses, mountain views, and a healthy dose of mud, then Holiday Valley's Mudslide is the event for you.
Returning Saturday, June 20, the Mudslide has become one of Ellicottville's most popular summer traditions, drawing runners and families from across Western New York and beyond. Now in its 14th year, the event combines the beauty of Holiday Valley's mountain terrain with an adventurous obstacle course designed to challenge participants without taking itself too seriously.
Unlike some extreme obstacle races, the Mudslide focuses on fun rather than fear. Participants can expect approximately 15 obstacles, plenty of muddy sections, and lots of laughs along the way. Runners can choose between two course options: The short course covers 4.2 miles and is primarily downhill, while the long course stretches 6 miles and includes additional uphill challenges for those looking to test their endurance. Both routes begin at the top of Morning Star (accessed via the Yodeler Lift) and follow scenic mountain trails and ridgelines around the resort before descending back toward the finish area.
The event is designed for a wide range of ages and abilities. A Kids Race gives younger participants a chance to join the fun, while older children can tackle the short course alongside a parent or guardian. Every finisher receives a medal, making the Mudslide as much about the experience as it is about the finish time.
Whether you're a seasoned trail runner, a weekend warrior, or simply looking for a unique way to spend a summer day with friends and family, the Mudslide offers an unforgettable mix of fitness, adventure, and good old-fashioned fun! Expect muddy shoes, dirty clothes, big smiles, and plenty of stories to tell afterward.
The Holiday Valley Mudslide takes place Saturday, June 20. Registration is available online, and participants are encouraged to sign up NOW. For complete event details including registration and a schedule of times, visit www.holidayvalley.com/event/mudslide.
