For this week’s hike we are planning an extraordinary adventure to explore Griffis Sculpture Park in East Otto, NY, Cattaraugus County. This is approximately 2 hrs. from Springwater or 1 hr. 40 min from Rochester.

THIS IS AN ALL-DAY ADVENTURE!!

A little about this park:

Since the early 60’s, the steel sculptures of Larry Griffis, Jr. and other international artists have been residing in the woods, fields, and even ponds of Griffis Sculpture Park. The 450-acre Ashford Hollow Park is not only a tremendous regional attraction but holds the distinction of being one of America’s largest and oldest sculpture parks.

The park features over 250 large scale sculptures dispersed through miles of hiking trails. Each sculpture was placed with the natural setting in mind, creating a truly unique experience between art and nature.

The park is actually split into two sections: Rohr Hill Road Site and Mill Valley Road Site. The Rohr Hill area is characterized by towering sculptures set in fields and woods just off the road. The Mill Valley Road Site features both a smooth walk area, as well miles of trails through a variety of terrain, including 2 ponds.  Note:  we will be meeting at the Mill Valley Road Site at 11:00am. 

Carpool options are in the works, or you may drive yourself.  To be a group driver or part of a carpool, contact Kelly Rell by Friday at noon by email to  [email protected] or text to 215-990-9922.  Whether carpooling or driving on your own, please meet at 11 AM at 6902 Mill Valley Rd, East Otto, NY – this brings you to the main entrance.  Port a Potties are available here.

PLEASE PAY THE ENTRANCE FEE ($5 or $3 for Seniors) ONLINE PRIOR TO GOING OR PAY AT ENTRANCE USING THE QR CODE TO VENMO.

All hikers will explore the property as a group along the paths and fields.  You may stop at any time to relax as you see fit.

Social:  Bring a lawn chair or blanket and a picnic lunch to enjoy after our exploration at Mill Valley Road.  We must carry in and out, so bring only enough for yourself – no dish to pass.  No fire/stoves allowed on the property.  There are picnic tables on site if open and available.

After our picnic lunch we will all drive to the Rohr Hill location to see the towering roadside sculptures before heading home.  If you drive through Ellicottville on the way home you can stop for ice cream!

Directions: Take your favorite route depending on your starting point. East Otto is located off Route 219 between Springville and Ellicottville.  From Springwater, head for the south end of Letchworth Park via Route 436, then continue west on Route 39 to Springville and then south on Route 219, Ahrens Road, Rohr Hill Road and Rorh Road/Mill Valley Road to the site. From Rochester it is most likely quicker to take the thruway to West Seneca and then Route 219 south to Springville.