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Cycle the Erie Canalway Trail

Enjoy great scenery, fascinating history, and unparalleled cycling.

Cycle a few miles or all 360! The Erie Canalway Trail between Albany and Buffalo is 87-percent off road and suitable for all ages and abilities. The trail closely parallels both active and historic sections of the Erie Canal. You'll enjoy great cycling and easy access to communities, attractions, and amenities throughout the Canalway Corridor.

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Part of the Empire State Trail

The Erie Canalway Trail forms the east-west spine of the 750-mile Empire State Trail. This multi-use trail invites bicyclists and hikers to explore New York State's extraordinary experiences, people, and places. The trail runs north-south from New York City through the Hudson River Valley to Lake Champlain and east-west from Albany to Buffalo. Trail markers and wayfinding signs make it easy to follow the trail and to connect off-and-on-road segments.

Trail Maps

Multiday Itineraries

Trail Segments-- At a Glance

TRAIL SECTION MILES DESCRIPTION
Erie Canal Heritage Trail Buffalo to Lyons 120 Level cycling along the canal with charming canal villages to explore along the way. This is an excellent place for a long weekend cycling trip.
Old Erie Canal
Schasel Park in Port Byron to Warners Road in Camillus
28 Follows old Erie Canal route through Central New York; traverses Camillus Erie Canal Park, which includes restored aqueduct at Nine Mile Creek.
Old Erie Canal State Park Dewitt to Rome 36 Follows old Erie Canal through original canal towns; Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum is on route.
Rome to Utica 14 Follows the Erie Canal/Mohawk River with some lovely views along a largely shaded path.
Mohawk Hudson Bikeway Little Falls to Albany 86 Plenty to see and do; visit locks, historic and cultural sites, and canal towns. Short segments are easy to access for day trips.
Glens Falls Feeder Canal
Fort Edward to Glens Falls
9 This off-road trail follows the 1832 feeder canal that supplied water to the Champlain Canal. Trail connects with the Glens Falls Bikeway to Lake George.
Champlain Canalway Trail
Waterford to Whitehall
65 Follow Empire State Trail signs to connect on and off road sections. The route follows the Hudson River/Champlain Canal through a region rich in Revolutionary War history. Only about 40-percent of this trail is off road, so plan accordingly.