By Erie Canal National Heritage Corridor
When NASA launches its Artemis rocket this fall, astronauts will travel 250,000 miles to reach the moon. By any measure, it’s a long way. But consider this: cyclists, paddlers, walkers, and runners from across the country and all walks of life have racked up 332,000 miles along New York’s famed canals and Canalway Trails as part of the Canalway Challenge in 2022. That’s a lot of miles!
Many participants logged 360 miles from Buffalo to Albany during PTNY’s Cycle the Erie Canal tour in July, while others made the end-to-end journey or achieved their 15, 90, or 180 mileage goal on their own. As they go, the Canalway Challenge provides incentives, support, inspiration, and rewards, plus plenty of tips for the best sites, food, and beverages to sample along the way.
Sandy Sockett of New York City completed 360 miles in September. “Wow, where to begin!” she says. “The Lockport Flight of Five is amazing, the Women’s Rights museum is humbling, the infrastructure as you head into Syracuse is nothing short of fabulous. The scenery is incredible throughout and pulling into Albany is a real treat with the Cohoes Falls!”
If you would like to add your miles and join the Canalway Challenge finish line for 2022, visit www.canalwaychallenge.org for details. The program is free; the rewards are many.
Canalway Trail Times 