The Canalway Trail is a network of approximately 360 miles of multiple-use trails across upstate New York. The Canalway Trail follows the towpaths of both active and historic sections of the New York State Canal System as well as adjacent abandoned rail corridors.
Major portions of the Canalway Trail follow the legendary Erie Canal route from Buffalo to Albany. Along the way, the Erie Canalway Trail links the cities of Rochester, Syracuse and Utica. Over 85% of the Erie Canalway Trail is completed off-road. The Cycling the Erie Canal guide by Parks & Trails New York provides recommended on-street links that complete the trail route across the state. Other portions of the Canalway Trail follow the Champlain, Cayuga-Seneca and Oswego canals.
The Canalway Trail is not only a great long distance bicycling destination, but also an ideal close-to-home recreational resource for biking, walking, jogging and other types of seasonal trail activities. Trailhead parking and interpretive kiosks with historic information about the Erie Canal and New York State Canal System are located at many points along the Erie Canalway Trail. The Canalway Trail primarily consists of a stone dust surface with some asphalt segments.
Find the Canalway Trail Today
A free map of the Canalway Trail is available from the Canal Corporation. To obtain a copy, please contact us online or call 1-800- 4CANAL4.
The Cycling the Erie Canal guidebook is available for purchase from Parks & Trails New York. Cycling the Erie Canal retails for $26.95, and Parks & Trails New York members enjoy a special discount price. It is available by visiting www.ptny.org/shop, and at bookstores, bike shops, museums, and gift shops throughout the Canal Corridor and beyond..
Distinctive trail markers can be found along the Canalway Trail route and make it easy to follow.
For more Information
Visit Parks & Trails New York and the NYS Canal Corporation websites for more information and to learn about volunteer opportunities.
Canalway Trail Times 