..it all started with a dream to bring skiing to the region..

The story of Peek'n Peak begins in 1963 when a gentleman by the name of Phil Gravin shared his dream to bring skiing to the southwest corner of New York State.  On paper, it seemed like the perfect as the area lies in the snowbelt just above the Lake Erie ridge where warm, moist air is carried from the lake to meet the cooler inland air.  The natural mixture of hot and cold air brings more than 200 inches of snow, on average, to the region.

Gravink, who skied in college at Cornell University, discussed his plan with George Boozel who owned some land on Pekin Hill.  Myrl Babcock, Jim Caflisch and Jack Dean pooled their money and landed some investors to create Western Chautauqua Recreation, Inc. 

The partners acquired 400 acres of property in 1964/1965 and started to think of names for their idea.  Since the ski slopes are located on what was known as Pekin Hill which was the homestead of the Pekin family the name Peek'n Peak was chosen for the name of the ski resort. 

Otto Schneibs came from Lake Placid to design the trail layouts knowing the 400' vertical drop would provide enjoyment for future generations.  

An Old English theme was adopted naming the first slopes and trails Robin Hood's Retreat, Long Bow, Scarlet's Secret, Friar Tuck's Trek and Little John's Jaunt.  Olde Road was moved to accommodate the ski areas.  The offices and ticket sales were housed in an old school bus.  With the property in place, the name chosen and with high hopes of attracting not only area skiers, but skiers from Ohio and Pennsylvania as well Peek'n Peak opened in the winter of 1964-1965.

The resort featured two ski lifts (J-Bar and T-Bar), six slopes/trails and lift tickets priced at $4.50 on weekends, $3.00 for the beginner area and a 50 cent discount for weekday tickets.  Because there were no lights on the slopes, the lifts were operated only during the day.  The main lodge was soon built, but was less than half the size of the ski lodge, today. 

The Scott family (Scott Enterprises) from Erie, Pennsylvania fell in love with Peek'n Peak's charm and potential purchasing the property in 2011.  Today, Peek'n Peak is a four-season resort offering year-round fun for families, couples, friends and groups.  Snow groomers and snow guns make snow throughout the winter season.  Skiers and snowboarders enjoy 27 illuminated ski slopes and trails, state-of-the-art lifts which are available for every skill level.  The resort features a championship golf course, a luxury day spa, indoor and outdoor pools and the restaurant/lounge in the lodge (Bistro 210).

The Bistro 210 Sign on the Left in the Photo Reads..

Snow, it's what we're famous for and we sure do get a lot.  Named after the 210 inches of average snowfall, Bistro 210 celebrates the heart, soul and nostalgia of the first 50 years at Peek'n Peak Resort.

After a long day on the slopes or golf course, the atmosphere at Bistro 210 allows you to kick back and relax. 

The 108-room Inn at the Peak offers luxury accommodations.  Condominium rentals are also available for guests and large groups.