Downhill Skiing was first introduced to Western New York at the Bova Ski Area where there were three main ski slopes built by the CCC in 1938 and the rope tow was installed in 1940.
In 1951, four downhill ski trails were cleared along Bay State Road to create Big Basin Ski Area. A state-of-the-art ski lift, known as the Poma lift, was imported from France in 1956 and opened in January 1957. The cable-type ski lift was the first of its kind in WNY.
Due to a mechanical breakdown, Feb. 20, 1972 was the last day it was in operation. The company that built it had gone out of business and the inability to acquire parts needed to repair it proved to be the demise of the ski lift. The Bova Ski Area was last used in March 1980.
In the 45 years since it last operated nature has reclaimed much of this area and is mostly tree covered. Remnants of this bygone era remain and if you spend a little time you can find some of the poles that were used for lights and the lift.
This hike will take you along the Eastern Meadow Trail tho the meadow has long since been reclaimed by trees. Good Luck and happy Caching.
This cache is placed with permission of the New York State Parks and holds permit ALL411.
