Erie Canalway

New York's canals offer an unparalleled place to recreate with family and friends while discovering the incredible history and beauty of America's most famous human-made waterway. From boat rentals to multiday bike rides to visiting state and national parks, there's plenty to explore on and off the water.

On the Water
The New York State Canal System-- which includes the Erie, Champlain, Cayuga-Seneca, and Oswego Canals-- is the centerpiece of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. Relax and enjoy a canal boat tour or multiday voyage. You can also launch your own motorboat, paddle the canal, or rent a boat for a self-skippered vacation.

Along the Trail
The Canalway Trail is an ideal place for fitness and fun. Spend a few hours walking or cycling and seeing the sites or plan a longer cycling trip to really experience all the trail has to offer. The 360-mile east-west Canalway Trail from Buffalo to Albany parallels the Erie Canal and is part of the newly completed 750-mile Empire State Trail, which also extends north-south from New York City to Lake Champlain.

Canal Communities
One of the best parts of visiting New York's canals is exploring the many cities, towns and villages along the waterway. Many of these communities provide visitor centers with restrooms, showers, and other services for boaters, cyclists, and paddlers within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Be sure to visit local museums where you’ll learn about people, places and innovations along the canals.

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