Cyclists from 34 states are crossing New York State via the Erie Canalway Trail between Buffalo and Albany as part of the 23rd annual Cycle the Erie Canal tour organized by the statewide nonprofit Parks & Trails New York.
After going virtual in 2020, the popular tour’s participants and organizers are excited to return to the real-life experience on the trail.
On Tuesday, July 13 cyclists arrive in Seneca Falls, having completed day two of the eight-day, 400-mile tour, after cycling through quaint canal towns and watching bridge tenders raise and lower iconic Erie Canal lift bridges. They will culminate their day in Seneca Falls with visits to the Women’s Rights National Historic Park, National Women’s Hall of Fame and the Elizabeth Cady Stanton home, then enjoy dinner at local eateries in town.
Covering between 40 and 60 miles per day, cyclists travel along the Erie Canalway Trail, which is now more than 85 percent complete and the east-west axis of the statewide 750-mile Empire State Trail.
The decision to go ahead with the event was a difficult one that was made several months after planning usually begins. Coordinators faced many challenges in putting together this year’s event to keep it safe for riders, volunteers, and the numerous communities through which the tour passes, especially as regulations were continually changing.
Cycle the Erie Canal riders are required to either be vaccinated or periodic negative COVID tests.
“Cycle the Erie Canal tour is a wonderful way to experience the Erie Canal. It’s fun, healthy, and good for the economy,” says Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Robin Dropkin. “We have cyclists aged 12 to 88 and they all get to experience what makes the Erie Canal and upstate New York so special.”
The Erie Canalway Trail contributes significantly to the economy of upstate New York. A recent study shows that the Erie Canalway Trail generates an annual economic impact of $253 million.
The NYS Canal Corporation and New York Power Authority have partnered with Parks & Trails New York on Cycle the Erie Canal since its inception. The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is the premier heritage sponsor of the event. Nine regional tourism agencies also sponsor the ride.
Parks & Trails New York is New York’s leading statewide advocate for parks and trails, dedicated since 1985 to improving our health, economy, and quality of life through the use and enjoyment of green space.
# # # # # Schedule of Events for Seneca Falls:
- Tuesday, July 13 Fairport to Seneca Falls
- Tent City Overnight Location: Vince’s Park, 2904 NY-318, Seneca Falls, NY
- 8:00-11:00am – Morning Rest Stop: Palmyra Canal Park
- 11:00am-4:00pm – Afternoon Rest Stop: Clyde Village Park
- Wednesday 8:00-11:00am – Morning Rest Stop: Port Byron Erie Canal Heritage Park
