The Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region is a destination that attracts travelers who are seeking phenomenal outdoor recreation opportunities and idyllic charm. Local waterways are a huge draw; windswept shores, beaches, and dramatic cliffs define Chautauqua County’s northern Lake Erie border. Lake Erie harbors abundant walleye, bass, and trout fisheries.
Inland, Chautauqua Lake has remained a destination for lake recreation enthusiasts who have enjoyed sailing, boating, fishing, kayaking, and other water fun for generations. Several smaller lakes surround Chautauqua, including Findley Lake, Bear Lake, and Cassadaga Lakes.
Summer Fun at Lake Chautauqua
Boating & Paddle Sports: Chautauqua County is a popular destination for boating and paddle sports. Visitors have the option to rent powerboats, pontoon boats, and certain non-motorized boats. Enjoy cruising around the lakes, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, tubing, water skiing, and fishing.
Fishing: Fishing Lake Erie’s shoreline in Chautauqua County is truly an experience. Bass are found along the entire New York shoreline. The eastern basin of Lake Erie is well-known for trophy-size walleye.


Chautauqua Lake has exceptional fishing for walleye, bass, muskellunge, and several species of panfish. Findley Lake’s beds of aquatic vegetation provide habitat for a variety of sportfish and panfish, while the lakes of Cassadaga offer angling opportunities for largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, muskellunge, and panfish. Lean on the expertise of area sport fishing guides for help landing the catch of a lifetime! Fishing charters and guides are operating on both Lake Erie and Chautauqua Lake.
Trails
Chautauqua County has some of the best hiking trails in New York. Hike the 24-mile Westside Overland Trail system or explore hardwood forests along the 19-mile Eastside Overland Trail. Magnificent views atop Chautauqua County’s hills are not to be missed, especially the panoramic view of Lake Erie from the Luensman Overview Park. Journey the 17 miles of Rails to Trails, plan a visit to the Audubon Community Nature Center, or stand in awe of giant rock formations at Panama Rocks Scenic Park.
Mountain Adventures
Mountain Adventures at Peek‘n Peak Resort open in late May with the Aerial Adventure Course, Giant Zipline, and the Soaring Eagle Zipline running. Guests are asked to bring their own leather-palmed gloves for use on the Aerial Adventure Course & Giant Zipline, though appropriate gloves will be available for purchase upon arrival. Guests are also asked to book a reservation and print their waiver prior to arrival.
Visit the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau for more information on this idyllic part of the country.
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