From warm weather and blue skies to crisp air and colorful trees, the New York Power Authority (NYPA) and the New York State Canal Corporation invite you to join us in ushering in a new season of “On the Canals.” Following the smashing success of the summer excursion program, a new slate of family fun activities and unique recreational opportunities are on the way this Fall.
From May to August, this summer’s “On the Canals” excursions, featured in Conde Nast, included six outdoor adventures that reintroduced visitors to New York’s historic Canals and Canalway trails. These free recreational opportunities allowed visitors to experience the outdoors through guided kayak, biking, and hydrobiking tours, guided fishing excursions, paddling and pedaling, biking & boating, and guided birding tours.
Additionally, through a collaboration with Camp Rockway and Tentrr, overnight travelers had their pick of glamping and hassle-free campsites, respectively, to kick back and relax. These sites showcased the best of nature along the Canals, while providing comfort in fully furnished campsites complete with queen-sized, memory foam beds, bathrooms and showers and solar panel lights.
Now that cooler weather is here, NYPA and the New York State Canal Corporation have created a brand-new itinerary of fall pilot excursions for visitors to experience this season. Best of all, they are free!
Now through mid-October, Brockport area visitors can take part in a guided paddle-pedal tour from Brockport to Holley Canal Falls. This excursion will offer biking and kayaking tours with a break in the trip to enjoy local refreshments, and will operate Saturdays and Sundays, with tours launching three times daily. There is also a discount available at a local restaurant for participants!
For the more observant nature buffs, a guided birding hike is available in the Montezuma Audubon Center grounds, including a 1-mile hike around the marshes, among the grasslands, and through the forest while learning about the many birds and other wildlife that live there, as well as how the habitats are managed. Participants will be provided with binoculars and bird guides to make sure they get the best views of the migratory waterfowl, songbirds and birds of prey that rest and feed for the winter. This excursion is available every Saturday starting October 23 through December 18for birders of all ages.
There’s no better way to usher in the new season than by planning a trip to experience the Canals in an all-new way during the most colorful time of year in New York State. The natural beauty and bucolic landscape that surrounds these areas provides a perfect setting to gather up the family to experience all new, first of its kind adventures while exploring nature and supporting canalside communities. Watch for a pilot program of winter excursions in development now.
For more information or to book a free excursion, visit “On the Canals.”
Canalway Trail Times 