Erie Canalway Trail

Itinerary Details

1. Day 1Arrive Buffalo

   If you arrive in Buffalo early, check in then spend some time at Canalside where you can explore this vibrant waterfront complete with a Naval and Military Memorial Park, or sign up for a cool bike tour with Buffalo Bike Tours.

   12:00 PM Optional Shuttle Pickup - Albany
   3:00 PM Optional Shuttle Pickup – Syracuse
   8:00 PM Orientation – Hotel Lobby
   

   
   

   • Hotel in Buffalo
2. Day 2Buffalo to Lockport

   The day starts at 8:30AM with a bike fitting for those who have opted to rent.

   Your cycling adventure kicks off at Canalside in Buffalo, right at the Mile Marker. From there, you'll pedal along the picturesque Niagara River and the scenic Tonawanda Waterfront, eventually reaching the entrance of the Erie Canal, known as the Gateway. Take a break for a relaxing picnic lunch before pedaling onward to Lockport. Here, you'll board a narrated Canal Cruise, navigating the remarkable Flight of Five Locks. Finally, your day concludes at the delightful Lockport Inn and Suites.
   

   • 32.9 miles
   • Accommodation in Lockport
   • Breakfast

   • 

     Lockport Inn and Suites exterior

     Spend your nights in comfortable hotels and inns

   • 

     Lockport Inn and Suites

     Spend your nights in comfortable hotels and inns

3. Day 3Lockport to Brockport

   Departing from Lockport, you'll experience a leisurely and picturesque cycling route, offering your first glimpses of the enchanting Lift Bridges that stretch across the Erie Canal. Pedal through the delightful towns of Medina, Albion, and Holley, where you can pause to explore the serene Holley Falls Park. Afterward, continue your journey to Brockport, where you'll rest for the day.

   • 44.7 miles
   • Accommodation in Brockport
   • Breakfast
4. Day 4Brockport to Macedon

   Today's 40-mile (64-km) ride offers a pleasant downhill slope, promising a relaxing and effortless journey. Take advantage of this leisurely day to indulge in a unhurried lunch in the charming waterfront villages of Pittsford or Fairport, both brimming with diverse dining choices.

   In Fairport, you even have the chance to hop on a kayak and enjoy a leisurely paddle along the canal. Afterward, the journey carries on to Macedon, where an enjoyable evening awaits you. Tonight, there will be a delightful pizza and movie night, featuring the film "Erie, The Canal That Made America."

   • 39.8 miles
   • Accommodation in Macedon
   • Breakfast and Dinner
5. Day 5Macedon to Seneca Falls

   Today's journey takes you through the scenic upstate New York countryside as you pedal towards Seneca Falls. Along the way, explore numerous points of interest such as the Women’s Rights National Park, the historic Knitting Mill from the Civil War era, and the serene Cayuga Lake State Park. Additionally, there are several museums, shops, and excellent dining spots to discover.

   In the evening, savor a delightful dinner before taking a leisurely stroll along the enchanting Ludovico Sculpture Trail and the lovely waterfront of the Seneca-Cayuga Canal.

   • 44.7 miles
   • Accommodation in Seneca Falls
   • Breakfast
6. Day 6Seneca Falls to Syracuse

   After bidding farewell to Seneca Falls, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes as you cycle through Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, eventually rejoining the Erie Canalway Trail. En route, discover several canal parks, including the meticulously restored Jordan Aqueduct Park and the historically reconstructed Nine Mile Creek Aqueduct, restored to its original splendor.

   Upon reaching Syracuse, explore the remarkable Erie Canal Museum, then treat yourself to a delectable dinner at one of the area's many outstanding restaurants.

   • 47.8 miles
   • Accomodation in Syracuse
   • Breakfast
7. Day 7Syracuse to Rome

   Between Syracuse and Rome, the bike path offers a wealth of sights to explore. Enjoy a seamless 17-mile (27-km) ride to the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum, a fascinating destination well worth your time. Continuing onward, cycle past numerous aqueducts and the impressive Lock 21, pausing for a delightful trailside picnic lunch.

   In Rome, delve into the history at the remarkable Fort Stanwix before completing the last few miles of your journey to reach the hotel.
   

   • 46 miles
   • Accommodation in Rome
   • Breakfast
8. Day 8Rome to Little Falls

   Enjoy a scenic and effortless ride to Utica, where you have the option to take a detour from the bike trail and explore the Munson-Williams-Proctor Art Gallery (free admission). Alternatively, wander the shaded paths of the Utica Zoo, home to adorable Red Pandas, before resuming your journey to Little Falls. This charming town boasts picturesque main streets, excellent pubs and eateries, and a plethora of artisan and antique shops waiting to be discovered!

   • 39.8 miles
   • Accommodation in Little Falls
   • Breakfast
9. Day 9Little Falls to Schenectady

   Don't be discouraged by the 60-mile (96-km) distance today; the downhill terrain works in your favor! Relish the effortless glide as you pedal to Schenectady, where you'll be treated to breathtaking natural landscapes and a glimpse into Revolutionary War history. Along the bike trail, you'll find significant sites such as Oriskany Battlefield, Herkimer Home, Fort Klock, and Schoharie Crossing Historic Site, all just a short distance away.
   
   As night falls, we'll come together to celebrate the final evening on the incredible Erie Canal Trail with a group dinner social.

   • 59.7 miles
   • Accommodation in Schenectady
   • Breakfast and Dinner
10. Day 10Schenectady to Albany

    Today marks the final ride on the Erie Canal Trail. You'll pedal through the Capital Region, pausing briefly to admire the stunning Cohoes Falls before reaching Albany, where your unforgettable adventure comes to an end.

    • 30.4 miles
    • Breakfast