Coldspring gets residents closer to nature
Situated in what’s known as the “Enchanted Mountains of Western New York,” Coldspring is a rural town in Cattaraugus County that offers homebuyers more space and convenient access to New York’s largest state park. Established in 1837, the town has primarily been an agricultural community. Coldspring is split in half by the Allegheny River. The north end of town holds its homes and businesses, while the south end is made up entirely of part of Allegany State Park. Ciji VanDyke, a licensed real estate salesperson/owner of RE/MAX On Point, says the region is a great place for people looking to be closer to nature. “I love Cattaraugus County,” says VanDyke, who’s been selling homes since 2009. “You’ve got all four seasons, it’s beautiful country and the cost of living is very affordable.”
Hiking, camping and winter sports in Allegany State Park
The massive, 65,000-acre Allegany State Park’s main draw is its 18 miles of marked hiking trails, as well as its 80 additional miles of unmarked trails. The park’s Quaker area holds campgrounds, playgrounds and a lake where locals can swim, fish and kayak. The Old Quaker Store Museum, which once held a small souvenir shop, now operates as an exhibit about the park’s history. There are sports facilities for horseshoes, baseball, basketball, volleyball and tennis. Parts of Allegany and other state forests, like South Valley and Bucktooth, serve as hunting grounds too. “There’s also cross-country skiing in the winter,” adds VanDyke. Cardinal Hills Golf Course, 8 miles away in Randolph, is open to the public and has 18 holes. Onoville Marina Park is 10 miles south and offers boating access to the Allegheny River.
Older farmhouses, newer ranch-style homes start around $125,000
Coldspring features a mix of older homes from the late 1800s and more modern styles from the mid1900s. Older farmhouse-style houses and Nationals, as well as newer ranch-style properties, sit on lots ranging from a half-acre to 5 acres. Homes here typically sell for $125,000 to $250,000.
B-rated Randolph Central School District
Randolph Central School District earns a B from Niche. Students may start at Gail N. Chapman Elementary, which teaches kindergarten through sixth grade and gets a B. Randolph Junior/Senior High receives a B-minus, and its athletics department streams home games online for anyone who can't attend in person. The school's boys' basketball team won the state championship in 2023.
Picking up groceries, grabbing a meal along Route 394
On state Route 394, the Coldspring Deli is a small market with essentials. Nextdoor, the Hide-A-Way Restaurant has been serving American favorites for over 20 years. Tops Friendly Market is 8 miles away in Randolph for larger grocery trips. “You’re also very close to Amish Country,” adds VanDyke. “You’ll find people selling baked goods, crafts and their own sewing. It’s a big draw for a lot of people.”
Annual events throughout the Enchanted Mountains
The Enchanted Mountains host events throughout the county year-round. In July, Onofest is held at the Onoville Marina Park with live music, local vendors and family activities. There’s a Beach Party at Red House Beach in Allegany State Park in August, featuring lawn games, a sandcastle contest and live music. Nearby Ellicottville is an event hub for the whole county. The Fall Festival in October transforms the village into a walkable exhibit of local arts and crafts. The Beer & Wine Festival at the Holiday Valley Resort has been a staple for more than 20 years. There are also local music festivals like the Winter Blues Weekend in January, Winter Music Jam in February and Cabana Bar Music Series throughout the summer.
Commuting via Route 394, I-86
Coldspring is a heavily car-dependent area. Route 394 gets residents 8 miles north to Randolph. Commuters can also take Interstate 86 for regional travel. The closest hospital, Olean General, is 34 miles east. Buffalo Niagara International Airport is located 72 miles away.
Written By
Logan Soter-Reardon
