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Share your comments, questions, opinions, and advice on the Erie Canal Bike Trail.
 
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Buffalo Bike Tours & Bike Rentals in Buffalo
 -  + I am interested in renting 2 touring bikes for Erie Canal trail. What are your prices to rent. Plan to bike trails August 15,2024
Discussion started 03/18/24 9:21:05 PM by Jill nagle - 0 replies
Jill nagle from Apache Junction, AZ on 03/18/24 9:21:05 PM
I am interested in renting 2 touring bikes for Erie Canal trail.
What are your prices to rent. Plan to bike trails August 15,2024


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Buffalo Bike Tours & Bike Rentals in Buffalo
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Lodging in Albion and Palmyra
 -  + We're going to be riding the EST from Buffalo to ALB in June. Planning to do about 60 miles per day. Any lodging recommendations for Albion and Palmyra or somewhere close? Thanks!
Discussion started 03/09/24 2:24:13 PM by Chris Walton - 0 replies
Chris Walton from Halfmoon, NY on 03/09/24 2:24:13 PM
We're going to be riding the EST from Buffalo to ALB in June. Planning to do about 60 miles per day. Any lodging recommendations for Albion and Palmyra or somewhere close?

Thanks!


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Lodging in Albion and Palmyra
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Amtrak Station in Buffalo
 -  + Still no solid answer. This is one of the BEST bike trails around, Buffalo to Albany on the ERIE CANAL. Can a bike be taken off at Exchange St downtown Buffalo? Roll off or Boxed? YEARS NOW A...
Discussion started 03/06/24 8:45:52 AM - 1 reply (last reply by Chris Walton at 03/09/24 2:18:23 PM)
anonymous from VT on 03/06/24 8:45:52 AM
Still no solid answer. This is one of the BEST bike trails around, Buffalo to Albany on the ERIE CANAL.

Can a bike be taken off at Exchange St downtown Buffalo? Roll off or Boxed?

YEARS NOW AMTRAK DOSNT CLEARLY SAY. Our bikes wound up in Depew couple years ago, fiasco to get them both price and time.

 
Chris Walton from Halfmoon, NY on 03/09/24 2:18:23 PM
Check our #281 Empire SErvice from Albany to Buffalo. I called and you can bring on your bike for $20. Make bike reservations when you book your seat. May need to remove your front wheel.


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Amtrak Station in Buffalo
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Amtrak station near Albany
 -  + My wife and I are planning to cycle the canal in June or July. We are taking the Amtrak from Buffalo to Albany but not sure what station is closest to the trail. Any suggestions would be appreciated. ...
Discussion started 12/13/23 3:20:08 PM by Wayne L. - 1 reply (last reply by Chris Walton at 03/09/24 2:11:18 PM)
Wayne L. from Penetanguishene Ontario on 12/13/23 3:20:08 PM
My wife and I are planning to cycle the canal in June or July. We are taking the Amtrak from Buffalo to Albany but not sure what station is closest to the trail. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks

 
Chris Walton from Halfmoon, NY on 03/09/24 2:11:18 PM
Schenectady Train Station is closest to the Empire State Trail. The other amtrak station is in Rensselaer.


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Amtrak station near Albany
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Lyons Fire Station in Lyons
 -  + "You are welcome to pitch your tent behind the firehouse. You may use their shower and restroom free of charge." Is this true? The showers and restroom are available at the firehouse? If so, wow,...
Discussion started 03/08/24 10:03:12 PM by Bike Tourer - 0 replies
Bike Tourer from Hartford,CT on 03/08/24 10:03:12 PM
"You are welcome to pitch your tent behind the firehouse. You may use their shower and restroom free of charge."

Is this true? The showers and restroom are available at the firehouse? If so, wow, thank you Lyons Fire Dept!


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Lyons Fire Station in Lyons
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Ilion Marina in Ilion
 -  + Planning a trip to bike to Rochester in April. Is the Marina open for camping in April (probably around 9th thru 11th eta)?
Discussion started 03/07/24 9:41:19 PM by Bike Tourer - 0 replies
Bike Tourer from Hartford, CT on 03/07/24 9:41:19 PM
Planning a trip to bike to Rochester in April. Is the Marina open for camping in April (probably around 9th thru 11th eta)?


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Ilion Marina in Ilion
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camping rec.
 -  + looking for camping along trail from BUffalo to palmyra for about 7 of us fools. is water avail throughout the trail if we become true weenies any Airbnb's, motels, B&B's along way? thanks!!
Discussion started 02/21/24 10:15:44 AM by greg gelburd - 3 replies (last reply by Mike OL at 02/29/24 10:56:06 AM)
greg gelburd from CHARLOTTESVILLE on 02/21/24 10:15:44 AM
looking for camping along trail from BUffalo to palmyra for about 7 of us fools.
is water avail throughout the trail
if we become true weenies any Airbnb's, motels, B&B's along way?
thanks!!

 
Cathy from Churchill from Churchill, PA on 02/28/24 12:00:16 AM
Last September I biked on the Erie Canal Trail with my husband providing support. We stayed at the Lockport Inn and Suites. I'm not sure about biking there from the trail. My husband picked me up and we were able to drive there. We really loved it. It's like a time capsule. A couple who are a bit up in years, have run it for many years. Their adult children help. Go to the website and you can see the photos of the rooms. We had a jacuzzi, the room was high end 70s, "Hollywood Regency." We got to visit with the owner. He has an incredible (actually he may have more than one) convertible cadillac from the 50s, he let us sit in it and take our picture. Then my husband got to drive around the grouds with him in his golf cart, pick apples from an apple tree, it was an absolute joy! So bottom line, if you want an experience like none other, and you can get there from the trail, stay at the Lockport Inn and Suites.

 
Lancaster Cyclist from Lancaster NY on 02/29/24 9:42:07 AM
Good information. It looks like the Inn is 1.6 miles south of the Lockport locks which is on the canal trail and 11 minutes via bicycle per google maps. BTW, the original flight of 5 locks has been preserved along side the current locks and should be a place to take in while in the area.

 
Mike OL from Fairport on 02/29/24 10:56:06 AM
I believe there is camping at Macedon Canal Park.


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camping rec.
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Camping in Pittsford
 -  + Is there any place to camp in Pittsford. It does not show on the trip planner. The locations they show are quite expensive.
Discussion started 02/26/24 1:36:30 PM by Tabasco - 0 replies
Tabasco from Frankfort KY on 02/26/24 1:36:30 PM
Is there any place to camp in Pittsford. It does not show on the trip planner. The locations they show are quite expensive.


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Camping in Pittsford
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Little Moose Lodge in Fort Plain
 -  + Does anyone know how to contact Little Moose lodge? Is there a phone number or email.
Discussion started 02/25/24 7:43:53 AM by Buddy - 0 replies
Buddy from Oliver Beach Maryland on 02/25/24 7:43:53 AM
Does anyone know how to contact Little Moose lodge? Is there a phone number or email.


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Little Moose Lodge in Fort Plain
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Lodging in Lockort for 6 guys. Best option?
 -  + Looking for good place to stay on our first day going east
Discussion started 02/18/24 10:49:16 PM by craig Wagoner - 0 replies
craig Wagoner from Springfield MO on 02/18/24 10:49:16 PM
Looking for good place to stay on our first day going east


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Lodging in Lockort for 6 guys. Best option?
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Luggage transport in to inn
 -  + Same question -- is there a inn-to-inn luggage transporting service? Thank you
Discussion started 01/21/24 2:39:35 PM by Alex Beam - 1 reply (last reply by Old at 01/21/24 3:52:18 PM)
Alex Beam from Boston on 01/21/24 2:39:35 PM
Same question -- is there a inn-to-inn luggage transporting service?
Thank you

 
Old from Everywhere UpState on 01/21/24 3:52:18 PM
Click on the 'towns and services" tab of the web site.

If such a thing exists,it may be listed there.


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Luggage transport in to inn
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How often are you on road vs path?
 -  + Looking to ride from Albany to Buffalo this summer on the path. 1 How much of it is paved, and not paved? 2 Are there parts of it that require riding on the road? Thank you. Dave
Discussion started 01/15/24 5:57:06 AM by Dave S - 1 reply (last reply by sreen names at 01/15/24 10:29:20 AM)
Dave S from Albany area on 01/15/24 5:57:06 AM
Looking to ride from Albany to Buffalo this summer on the path.

1 How much of it is paved, and not paved?

2 Are there parts of it that require riding on the road?

Thank you.
Dave

 
sreen names from Optional, USA on 01/15/24 10:29:20 AM
1 How much of it is paved, and not paved?
A: Much of it. However, it is very smooth and not rutted. I rode on it safely and comfortably with tires that were smooth road tires.

2 Are there parts of it that require riding on the road?
A: Go the the map. Click on a town name or section. Zoom in to see if that segment is on a road. Most of the path is not on a road, particularly in rural and sub-suburban areas. Then, go to another segment and have a look-see.


My advice: Just get on the path and ride and stop worrying. Whatever your bike is, it is good enough. Any bike, any bike tire will suffice. Maybe a good idea to have a kit to fix a flat, and know how to use it. However, highly unlikely that you will use it. Don't think that you need especially anything other than to just get going. The main requirement is to just get going.


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How often are you on road vs path?
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If you can only do 150-200 miles what section would you choose?
 -  + My dog and I are planning to do a portion of the Erie Canal this summer. We only have a week and about 60 miles a day is our limit with her in a trailer. We plan to start on the western end (closer t...
Discussion started 01/04/24 7:23:43 PM by Paul Turner - 5 replies (last reply by screen name at 01/10/24 10:05:09 PM)
Paul Turner from Wadsworth, Ohio on 01/04/24 7:23:43 PM
My dog and I are planning to do a portion of the Erie Canal this summer. We only have a week and about 60 miles a day is our limit with her in a trailer. We plan to start on the western end (closer to home) ride east and then ride back to our vehicle

 
Daryl on 01/05/24 8:17:21 AM
One way of figuring this out in a way that would provided the most info to you and be specifically tailored for yourself is by clicking on the "Trip Planner" button. Since your dog will accompany you, if he/she is trotting along beside you you might consider looking for veterinarian services along the route. If the web site doesn't have that, try a duckduckgo search for the villages you'll pass thru.

From there you can pick any starting point, and see what services are along the 60 miles you will travel from your starting point.

Also, something to think about is whether you mean 60 miles out and 60 miles back or 60 miles round trip.

Just as a tip (perhaps incorrect, but remember what you paid for it!) I've read and seen that the most interesting locks are toward western part of the canal at Lockport. I've enjoyed that part. Beautiful sweeping scenes of farmland, open sky, little danger for a dog, and nice villiages along the way that have essential services. However, I'd be very cautious with a dog going thru Rochester (where there are interesting locks). Maybe you could start west of Rochester and go west, or start in Lockport and go to the western part of Rochester.

Check out the "Towns and Services" menu at the top of the page, and make up your own mind.

 
Paul Turner from Wadsworth, Ohio on 01/10/24 3:19:42 PM
Thanks for the info. I pull the dog in a trailer but I still try to avoid roads. I'll probably limit the trip to Pendleon-Clyde. Maybe add Herkimer to Albany if things go well. That way there arent very many sections on the road and those seem short,

 
screen name from Optional, USA on 01/10/24 5:42:00 PM
Were I traveling from Ohio, and going to tow a dog, I'd start in Lockport, NY and go East. It is very rural and safe. I think that most of the towpath through Rochester is on a way that is separate from roadways.

The canal thru Rochester is supposed to be interesting, as it "crosses" a north-south river. Seeing how the west-east canal crosses that river is supposed to be something to behold... and engineering feat for its time.

I spent alot of time on the towpath toward Albany in my early days... mostly watching the boats go thru the locks. I think that riding on the "path" thru Albany will be your most hazardous stretch.

 
Paul Turner from Wadsworth, Ohio on 01/10/24 9:21:01 PM
Thanks for the feedback. Its been very helpful

 
screen name from Optional, USA on 01/10/24 10:05:09 PM
Since you are coming up from Ohio, it is worth while to know that the "topath" actually starts in downtown Buffalo.

I don't have anything against Buffalo, but sometimes the path in urban areas adjoins a busy highway. What a rotten place to ride with all those guys speeding by, leaving you in their exhaust, but alive at least.

If you start at Lockport, you'll see a set of locks there that is worth while seeing. From there the path eastward is pretty darned safe. Of course, watch out in Rochester, and think about skipping Syracuse somehow.

Forget bout your 200 mile goal and just have a goal to bike a beautiful stretch of the historic towpath is safety. I'm a geezer and would head back before reaching syracuse.

The tiny "villages" along with way are worthwhile stopping... to get a pizza and a beer.... because they are teeny and that is the most you can expect. HOwever, I found that pizza and beer was perfect and enough... if it was available.

As you bike, try to imagine what those villages must have looked like when the canal was in operation and served activity along the way.

Most important: take no risks that could endanger your dog. Your dog is your best friend and will keep you safe along the way.


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If you can only do 150-200 miles what section would you choose?
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Hostel Buffalo-Niagara in Buffalo
 -  + We offer Hiker/Biker Rates for those biking through! Inquire ahead of time via stay@hostelbuffalo.com
Discussion started 01/04/24 10:12:54 PM by Hostel Buffalo! - 0 replies
Hostel Buffalo! from Buffalo, NY on 01/04/24 10:12:54 PM
We offer Hiker/Biker Rates for those biking through!
Inquire ahead of time via stay@hostelbuffalo.com


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e bike - pedal assist
 -  + I would like to know from folks who have ridden the Erie Canal bike path on a class 2 ebike. Any information would be great. Thanks, joe c
Discussion started 12/01/23 11:18:04 AM by Joe c - 7 replies (last reply by OLD at 12/04/23 8:36:07 AM)
Joe c from Millis, ma on 11/25/23 7:41:29 PM
I would like to know from folks who have ridden the Erie Canal bike path on a class 2 ebike. Any information would be great. Thanks, joe c

 
Older than Rocks from All Over Western NY on 11/26/23 9:41:19 AM
My wife and I road it on Class 1 ebikes. It is a dream.... no hills, flat surface, often dirt packed from mules at one time, and now bikes and runners' feet.

Look for little (tiny) villages along the canal at a bridge crossing. These probably served a purpose for the barges at one time.

Now there you may find a pizza joint and a bar that service local thirst and hunger.

Look on this discussion's web site under "Towns and Services."

While you are on the tow path, have a look around you: you'll seen the most gloriously beautiful and peaceful farm settings you've ever laid eyes on!

I think it unlawful to camp on property that is owned and maintained by the Canal Authority. However, some of the property is private farmland... and you may be able to camp there... with permission. Some farms had set out tents just for the bikers to have an overnight.


 
joe c from millis. ma on 11/27/23 2:59:21 PM
Planning to do the bike trail on my class 2 ebike this summer.This will be my first time. Any advice,tips and suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks Joe C








 
Mike from Fairport on 11/28/23 9:20:03 AM
Stop and see the canal overflow falls in Holley NY. I go to the top of the falls and scramble down the hill a little bit to get to the falls.

 
Daniel S. from Dallas, TX on 12/01/23 11:18:04 AM
Exploring doing the Erie Canal Trial next summer on my E bike. Would like to read other people's experience doing this. I can get 90+ miles on a full charge but would rather not run it down that far. My charge to mile ratio is about 1 hour of charge to 20 miles of battery. Like to hear from experienced E Bikers on this particular trail.

 
Mike O from Fairport on 12/03/23 7:23:52 PM
Towns around me seem to be no more than 15 miles apart. The trail is mostly flat and hard packed when not paved.

 
anonymous on 12/04/23 8:23:57 AM
NY State has a web site that shows where all EV charging stations are. You may find charging services for a bike there.

 
OLD from All over the place on 12/04/23 8:36:07 AM
This web site has an excellent "Towns and Services" tab that shows services at many, if not all, towns and villages along the way.

That may be a good starting point for finding services for charging your bike.

There may be many services that may be willing to charge your bike in exchange for a few dollars. My experience is that if you are freindly and non-threatening, and make a friendly offer of a few dollars, they'll take your request seriously, or tell you where you might get your request fulfilled nearby. If you want something for nothing, it'll be more difficult.

Try that "Towns and Services" tab of this web site.


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e bike - pedal assist
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Palmyra Aquaduct
 -  + Is the trail open at the Aquaduct west of Palmyra? There was a detour the las time we were out there. but it has also been a while
Discussion started 09/02/22 9:24:18 AM by John Stewart - 2 replies (last reply by Mike O at 11/15/23 9:38:17 PM)
John Stewart from Rochesteer on 09/02/22 9:24:18 AM
Is the trail open at the Aquaduct west of Palmyra? There was a detour the las time we were out there. but it has also been a while


 
John Stewart from Rochesteer on 09/03/22 7:20:33 PM
Still a detour

 
Mike O from Fairport on 11/15/23 9:38:17 PM
The detour was still there in October 2023


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Palmyra Aquaduct
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Safe Parking near the Erie Canal Bike Trail in Buffalo, NY
 -  + Safe Parking near the Erie Canal Bike Trail in Buffalo, NY? Starting June 23rd we are planning on riding the Erie Canal Trail from Buffalo to Albany. Where is a safe place to park 2 vehicles from...
Discussion started 11/13/23 5:10:58 PM by TS - 0 replies
TS from Omaha, NE on 11/13/23 5:10:58 PM
Safe Parking near the Erie Canal Bike Trail in Buffalo, NY?

Starting June 23rd we are planning on riding the Erie Canal Trail from Buffalo to Albany. Where is a safe place to park 2 vehicles from Sunday June 23rd to Saturday June 29th in Buffalo near the trail?

Please Advise. Thank You


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Safe Parking near the Erie Canal Bike Trail in Buffalo, NY
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Buffalo Detour
 -  + The map shows a detour in Buffalo, due to reconstruction of the trail. When is the work expected to be finished? Will the detour be in place in June 2024?
Discussion started 10/31/23 12:56:53 PM by PlatoLarry - 0 replies
PlatoLarry from Kentucky on 10/31/23 12:56:53 PM
The map shows a detour in Buffalo, due to reconstruction of the trail. When is the work expected to be finished? Will the detour be in place in June 2024?


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Buffalo Detour
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Utica - bike trail closed Eastwards
 -  + We started our multi-day Erie Canal bike ride in Utica. Thought we would have an easy time finding trail head (and were told so by people in the city) but did not. Trail runs west but on East side the...
Discussion started 10/10/23 7:29:20 PM by Efkaplan - 0 replies
Efkaplan from Riverhead NY on 10/10/23 7:29:20 PM
We started our multi-day Erie Canal bike ride in Utica. Thought we would have an easy time finding trail head (and were told so by people in the city) but did not. Trail runs west but on East side there’s a chain link fenced gate across w 3 padlocks. No signage. We turned around and went all the way back to road, and on-road till Frankfort.

Has anyone else had this experience? Not sure how long that gate has been there? Super poor signage. Just don’t waste your time looking for the trail like we did. Just go on road to Frankfort and then you can pick it up and easy from there till Albany.


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Utica - bike trail closed Eastwards
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Route
 -  + What's the best route from Clyde to Camillus?
Discussion started 10/04/23 6:03:55 PM by Mick from tinley - 0 replies
Mick from tinley from Tinley park on 10/04/23 6:03:55 PM
What's the best route from Clyde to Camillus?


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Riverlink Park in Amsterdam
 -  + Can you camp here overnight?
Discussion started 10/03/23 8:18:04 PM by Chris - 0 replies
Chris from Pagosa Springs, CO on 10/03/23 8:18:04 PM
Can you camp here overnight?


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Riverlink Park in Amsterdam
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Stickers
 -  + Rode on the canal bike path a couple weeks ago, had a great time, but could not find souvenir stickers for my bike! Any ideas?
Discussion started 09/29/23 11:57:49 PM by John - 0 replies
John from Pacifica, CA on 09/29/23 11:57:49 PM
Rode on the canal bike path a couple weeks ago, had a great time, but could not find souvenir stickers for my bike! Any ideas?


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Stickers
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UR Medicine Urgent Care – Henrietta in Rochester
 -  + I went to this location for a medical issue. I arrived at 7:40pm and as I was coming to the door they locked me out and would not let me in for a doctor to look at my arm. Why does the hours of busine...
Discussion started 09/29/23 7:04:02 PM - 0 replies
anonymous on 09/29/23 7:04:02 PM
I went to this location for a medical issue. I arrived at 7:40pm and as I was coming to the door they locked me out and would not let me in for a doctor to look at my arm. Why does the hours of business say 9am -8 pm if they don’t let you in 20 minutes before closing. That’s just wrong and they should stay open until 8pm. They need caring people in there that work till closing.


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UR Medicine Urgent Care – Henrietta in Rochester
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Found Wallet at Smith St Bridge, Brockport, NY
 -  + My husband found a wallet with the drivers license and credit cards in it at the intersection of the Erie Canal Trail and the Smith St Bridge in Brockport, NY today. He turned it into the police depar...
Discussion started 09/20/23 8:55:54 PM by Cathy from Churchill - 0 replies
Cathy from Churchill from Churchill, PA on 09/20/23 8:55:54 PM
My husband found a wallet with the drivers license and credit cards in it at the intersection of the Erie Canal Trail and the Smith St Bridge in Brockport, NY today. He turned it into the police department. If you lost your wallet, try calling the Brockport PD.



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Found Wallet at Smith St Bridge, Brockport, NY
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Amtrak
 -  + I've been planning a 4 day trip for months. Took a lot of work to get the logistics right. Now three days before we are scheduled to leave Amtrak cancels our bike reservations. Ugh! We regrouped b...
Discussion started 09/18/23 5:53:06 PM by Halra - 3 replies (last reply by Old at 09/20/23 3:41:09 PM)
Halra from Yarmouth, ME on 09/18/23 5:53:06 PM
I've been planning a 4 day trip for months. Took
a lot of work to get the logistics right. Now
three days before we are scheduled to leave Amtrak
cancels our bike reservations. Ugh! We regrouped
by booking a campsite at Green Lake State Park.
Will do a couple of days bikes instead. Not
quite the same.

 
Bill in Houston from Houston on 09/19/23 7:58:47 AM
Sorry to hear that. Happened to us as well. We won't ever make plans to take bikes on Amtrak again, unless we are fully retired and plan to camp every night.

 
Old from Upstate on 09/20/23 2:10:40 AM
Did Amtrak give a reason for canceling your bike reservations?

My inclination would have been to fight it.

One think you can do is to track ... and get credible documentation of... the expenses that you incur by Amtrack canceling your reservations. Be fair, Do not exaggerated.

After your return, present your documents to Amtrak and request compensation for the damages you incurred.

If you have an attorey... or better yet... an attorney service that you pay for annually for, let them pursue Amtrak until you and Amtrack reach a settlement. They definately will not want to go to small claims court with you, and will either settle before the court date to avoid going to court (it will cost them alot of $ to do that), or they will not show up at court and the judge may award your damages, or reschedule for another court date... and award damages then.

Be polite and business-like, and you may get satisfaction.

 
Old from Upstate on 09/20/23 3:41:09 PM
Did you have a reservation specifically for your bikes???

My (limited) understanding is that this is essential.


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Amtrak
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Trail markings
 -  + Many thx to the pink tail marksman. I would still be out there if eastbound trail hadnt been marked by him. Again Thank u
Discussion started 09/19/23 9:36:13 AM by Bill - 0 replies
Bill on 09/19/23 9:36:13 AM
Many thx to the pink tail marksman. I would still be out there if eastbound trail hadnt been marked by him. Again Thank u


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Trail markings
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West Wayne Restaurant in Macedon
 -  + My husband and I came in here on Friday for breakfast around 10am. We ordered two coffees and asked if they had flavored creamers. They said they did, but it would cost extra. The coffee arrived and ...
Discussion started 09/18/23 12:32:39 PM by DinaF - 1 reply (last reply by DK at 09/18/23 6:45:41 PM)
DinaF on 09/18/23 12:32:39 PM
My husband and I came in here on Friday for breakfast around 10am. We ordered two coffees and asked if they had flavored creamers. They said they did, but it would cost extra. The coffee arrived and it tasted watered down. It was as if they again were trying to make extra money with subpar product. The food came and it was good. I really can't complain about that.

The problem that we had with West Wayne restaurant was that we left the waitress a tip, and she added an extra digit to it. Obviously we didn't know until the next day. I felt very violated!! We called them and the waitress admitted that she stole from us! She said to call back at 9am to speak to the owner. We called back and he said that we could come back and get the money that was stolen off my debit card, but we don't live out that way and happened to be passing through.


 
DK from Fultonville on 09/18/23 6:45:41 PM
Report it to your credit card company. They will take it off your bill.


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Canaltown Bed & Breakfast in Palmyra
 -  + Sorry to have to post this
Discussion started 09/15/23 2:01:08 PM by Bike Rider - 0 replies
Bike Rider from USA on 09/15/23 2:01:08 PM
Sorry to have to post this


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Canaltown Bed & Breakfast in Palmyra
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Canaltown Bed & Breakfast in Palmyra
 -  + Barb and Bob are lovely people, but they should no longer be in the business of hosting people in their home. Website, property description, and more are not accurately depicted. The home is filled w...
Discussion started 09/15/23 1:59:13 PM by Bike Rider - 0 replies
Bike Rider from USA on 09/15/23 1:59:13 PM
Barb and Bob are lovely people, but they should no longer be in the business of hosting people in their home. Website, property description, and more are not accurately depicted. The home is filled with clutter, there are no common areas in which to sit, breakfast is presented outside on the porch because there is nowhere to sit inside the home. The home and the rooms have seen a better day.


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Isleview County Park in Tonawanda
 -  + Would this be a good place to park for a three-day bike trip?
Discussion started 09/13/23 8:16:05 PM by Julia - 1 reply (last reply by John at 09/14/23 9:05:29 PM)
Julia from IN on 09/13/23 8:16:05 PM
Would this be a good place to park for a three-day bike trip?

 
John from Pittsburgh, PA on 09/14/23 9:05:29 PM
I believe it’s an Erie County park so call their parks dept and also the Town of Tonawanda police dept., tell them your plans and if it’s ok to leave your car overnight and is there something to put in your car dashboard to avoid towing. If they refuse to let you park at Isle View, ask them if they could suggest somewhere you can park. You never know if someone might let you stay at a personal residence, school, church, etc. You never know what they will suggest. Good luck!

John



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Dollinger's Motel in Albion
 -  + How is this motel?
Discussion started 09/13/23 1:10:08 PM by Boris - 0 replies
Boris from Rochester on 09/13/23 1:10:08 PM
How is this motel?


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Lock 8 Park in Schenectady
 -  + Can we please .aintain the port a John on lock 8. It is overflowing with fieces and absolutely disgusting.
Discussion started 09/12/23 7:39:05 AM by Alisa Kupinski - 0 replies
Alisa Kupinski from Rotterdam on 09/12/23 7:39:05 AM
Can we please .aintain the port a John on lock 8. It is overflowing with fieces and absolutely disgusting.


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Lock 8 Park in Schenectady
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Niskayuna Community Center in Schenectady
 -  + I'm doing a multi-day cycling trip on the Erie Canal Trail. Is it permissible to park overnight at this location?
Discussion started 09/11/23 9:57:35 AM by Rob - 0 replies
Rob from VT on 09/11/23 9:57:35 AM
I'm doing a multi-day cycling trip on the Erie Canal Trail. Is it permissible to park overnight at this location?


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Niskayuna Community Center in Schenectady
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Niskayuna Community Center in Schenectady
 -  + I'm doing a multi-day cycling trip on the Erie Canal Trail. Is it permissible to park overnight at this location?
Discussion started 09/11/23 9:57:13 AM by Rob - 0 replies
Rob from VT on 09/11/23 9:57:13 AM
I'm doing a multi-day cycling trip on the Erie Canal Trail. Is it permissible to park overnight at this location?


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Trail traffic
 -  + Starting from Buffalo 9 14 23 and wondering if I will see others riding this time of year? Any trail issues to be aware of?
Discussion started 09/10/23 9:49:44 PM by Wally Turvey - 3 replies (last reply by DK at 09/11/23 8:55:14 AM)
Wally Turvey from Chicago on 09/10/23 9:49:44 PM
Starting from Buffalo 9 14 23 and wondering if I will see others riding this time of year? Any trail issues to be aware of?

 
Old from Upstate on 09/11/23 6:03:58 AM
I don't know about the portion between Tonawanda and Lockport.

However, in mid-August I biked between Lockport and Gasport and saw only 1 other couple on the towpath during my entire ride.


 
Old from Upstate on 09/11/23 7:14:36 AM
my experience with " vague fear of trail issues" is: its a boogey man that doesn't exist on the towpath. There are no gremlins, sticky bandits, or people waiting behind trees with a baseball bat, or bad road condiitons.

WHile there are parts that are paved, there are parts where it is just really nice hard flat dirt.

Also, if it rains, you may get wet unless you hole up on a nearby bar that you can find using this web site by clicking on the circle on the map above that is the place you want to investigate.

The way to think of the towpath is: it is not unlike the road of life... if you peddle, you'll certainly get thru it, and if you are not so deterined to race thru it, you'll find that it is a beautiful ride and the road will be the least of your problems.... and will be one of the most memorable experiences you've ever had.... and you'll think back on it when you become an old man, get an e-bike, and try to do it again.

However, it might be a good idea to take a tire repair kit, just in case. Always have a Plan B in life, and a tire patch kit will be your Plan B on the towpath.

You will never forget your ride on along the canal. Stop every few miles, just to see what's arround you.

The Road bekons you. Answer its call.

 
DK from Fultonville on 09/11/23 8:55:14 AM
I ride the trail between Canajoharie and Amsterdam a couple times a week. (Old man on a Ebike).

Very few other riders between none and a dozen depending on the weather forecast.

Watch out for horseback riders, Amish wagons and the exhaust that comes out of the horses.

In my opinion it is the best thing New York State has ever done.

Schoharie crossing visitor center has nice clean bathrooms and welcome trail riders.

Karens Produce and Ice Cream has good burgers.


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Trail traffic
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Parking
 -  + Where can I park in Buffalo for a week. Riding to Syracuse
Discussion started 09/06/23 9:04:59 PM by Mick from tinley - 1 reply (last reply by Old Jimma at 09/07/23 3:00:14 AM)
Mick from tinley from Tinley park on 09/06/23 9:04:59 PM
Where can I park in Buffalo for a week. Riding to Syracuse

 
Old Jimma from Everywhere Upstate on 09/07/23 3:00:14 AM
Run a personal ad in the Buffalo Evening News for a few weeks, requesting to rent a garage for the duration.

If you are cheap and just park it someplace, there is strong possibility that your car will get towed to who knows where? City ordinances often prevent this sort of thing. If the City impounds your car, you'll have a hard time locating it, and then will have to pay cash to get it back from the secure lot where the City impounded it.

Or if leave it in a shopping lot: they are private lots and your car will get towed.

Run and ad, make a clean deal, and pay the $: half when you leave (get a receipt) and half when you return. You're car will be there when you return.

That's your cheapest and most secure option.


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Buffalo to Rochester OR Syracuse?
 -  + My brother & I are planning a bike trip along the Erie Canal. He wants to bike Tonawanda to Youngstown along the lake to Rochester & back the Erie Canal to Buffalo. I want to bike the Erie canal Buffa...
Discussion started 09/04/23 8:04:47 PM by Richard H - 5 replies (last reply by Old Jimma at 09/07/23 1:28:43 AM)
Richard H from Norfolk, VA on 09/04/23 8:04:47 PM
My brother & I are planning a bike trip along the Erie Canal. He wants to bike Tonawanda to Youngstown along the lake to Rochester & back the Erie Canal to Buffalo. I want to bike the Erie canal Buffalo to Syracuse leave our bike then come back & get them. Sept 23-28th. What do you think?

 
Old Jimma from Everywhere Upstate on 09/05/23 4:48:50 AM
Both options are good. You'll see the lake... they way your brother wants to go. However, with that route, you'll run side by side with more car traffic... between Tonowanda, the US Falls, where you connect with Lake Erie. Heading east from there, it should be peaceful with great views of the Lake.

However, the Canal is a bothmarvel of man's handiwork and nature. Its a definitive famous ride. As you get way from he Buf metro area it becomes a dreams ride: don't forget to look around t the farm and field surrounding you and not just at the towpath ahead of you.

I did a chunk of it this summer. You'll love the bars and pizza places in that are just a stone's throw front he canal in tiny towns along the way. It is so gorgeous!

With either option, make sure you are in very good shape, riding daily for a few months before you go, and have your doctor check you out and ok you for the ride.

On the ride I did I came a couple from NYC who had taken the train to the western part of the tow path: he was having cardiac issues, and she had to deal with that. Not a happy situation.

Please be prepared and get cleared for it from your DR before you go.

You could compromise and head east out the tow path to someplace between Lockport and Rochester, head north from there, and then head west along the lake. That would be very, very nice.

 
Marty H from Pittsburgh on 09/05/23 7:17:18 PM
Old Jimma, thanks for the info. You mentioned pizza and pubs. Do you or anyone else know if there are hotels along the canal also. I could not find a lot on airbnb

 
Old Jimma from Everywhere Upstate on 09/05/23 9:09:22 PM
You know what? This web site is pretty good for figuring out things about the resources that may avlail themselve so to you along the way.

For exammple,click on "Towns and Sevices." Also, look on "Interactive Map."

Start there. And look for books, too.

 
Cathy from Churchill from Churchill, PA on 09/07/23 12:11:14 AM
I agree with Old Jimma, this website is great for finding places to stay along the trail. It will show hotels and B&Bs. I don't know about Air B & Bs and VRBOs. I'll be doing a ride 9-17-23 - 9-21-23 from Tonawanda to Rockport and found the hotels and B&Bs on this site. You can just click on the town you will be staying in, and a list of all of the services (food, lodging, etc) will come up. You can also see how close they are to the trail.

 
Old Jimma from Everywhere Upstate on 09/07/23 1:28:43 AM
Thanks, Cathy from Churchill.

Because of the capability of this web site, I gave thought to having a cell phone mount of my bike.

However, having been out in rural Western NY again this summer, rural cell phone coverage is not always there.

I wondered more about having a GPS since GPS coverage is quite good in my experience.

i don't like gadgets, but I like getting lost even less.


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Buffalo to Rochester OR Syracuse?
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Train station in Syracuse
 -  + Is it possible to ride a bike from the Train Station in Syracuse to the trail? We plan to take the train from Amsterdam to Syracuse then bike back.
Discussion started 09/06/23 10:58:00 AM by Halra - 1 reply (last reply by Old Jimma at 09/06/23 11:52:08 AM)
Halra from Yarmouth, ME on 09/06/23 10:58:00 AM
Is it possible to ride a bike from the Train Station in Syracuse to the trail? We plan to take the train from Amsterdam to Syracuse then bike back.

 
Old Jimma from Everywhere Upstate on 09/06/23 11:52:08 AM
Its easy as ice cream.

From the train station (called the Walsh Regional Transporation Center):

* head SW on Harborside Dr
* turn rt on Hiawatha Blvd
* turn rt on Empire state trail... that's the towpath

Most importantly:
On the bikeeriecanal.com discussion page"
* click on the dot on the map that corresponds to Syracuse
* move the map around so that you can see the lake and look for the blue pin marker 51. thats the train station.

Use the directions above to see the map route I've suggested.

Consider getting a phone mount for you bike and use this map to guide you.

My guess is that you'll have to be cautious on the Empire State Trail while you are in the city of Syracuse.


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Train station in Syracuse
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Lock 30 State Campsite in Macedon
 -  + Stayed car camping on the night of August 17th. Also had the Cops come and shine their flashlights in my car. I never woke up, caught it on my cars security camera. Not sure they want people camping h...
Discussion started 08/27/23 6:00:12 PM - 0 replies
anonymous on 08/27/23 6:00:12 PM
Stayed car camping on the night of August 17th. Also had the Cops come and shine their flashlights in my car. I never woke up, caught it on my cars security camera. Not sure they want people camping here.


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Lock 30 State Campsite in Macedon
 -  + There is no water, no electricity, and no camping allowed here. We had the police shining us just after midnight. Don't do it!
Discussion started 08/18/23 6:41:02 PM by JL - 0 replies
JL on 08/18/23 6:41:02 PM
There is no water, no electricity, and no camping allowed here. We had the police shining us just after midnight. Don't do it!


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Riding the Erie Canal in Oct
 -  + Hi - We are planning our bike ride in early Oct, starting from Buffalo to Albany. Any tips regarding Oct weather and things to consider? Many thanks in advance. Zivit
Discussion started 07/16/23 10:23:03 PM by Zivit - 2 replies (last reply by Bill in Houston at 08/11/23 7:31:43 AM)
Zivit from Phoenix, AZ on 07/16/23 10:23:03 PM
Hi - We are planning our bike ride in early Oct, starting from Buffalo to Albany. Any tips regarding Oct weather and things to consider?
Many thanks in advance.
Zivit

 
Curly from here on 08/10/23 5:04:20 PM
August is nice riding in upstate NY. September is cool. October will be COLD, with frosts and maybe even snow flurries.

 
Bill in Houston from Houston on 08/11/23 7:31:43 AM
Many seasonal businesses will be closed.


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Ilion Marina in Ilion
 -  + Is there space here for our *small* camper?
Discussion started 08/09/23 9:39:41 AM by JL - 0 replies
JL on 08/09/23 9:39:41 AM
Is there space here for our *small* camper?


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Old Erie Canal State Park Parking Area in Syracuse
 -  + If we want to ride from Syracuse to Camillus which says 10 miles on the mileage chart, what is the address of the starting point? There seems to be many locations in Syracuse.
Discussion started 08/05/23 10:11:01 AM by Bonnie - 1 reply (last reply by Bill in Houston at 08/07/23 10:21:55 AM)
Bonnie on 08/05/23 10:11:01 AM
If we want to ride from Syracuse to Camillus which says 10 miles on the mileage chart, what is the address of the starting point? There seems to be many locations in Syracuse.

 
Bill in Houston from Houston on 08/07/23 10:21:55 AM
When you click on Syracuse on the map above, you will see a 0 on the map. That's where the trail miles are measured from.


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Parking at Buffalo Train Station
 -  + How much parking is available at train station in Buffalo and can you long term park there while you ride back to Buffalo from Albany.
Discussion started 08/04/23 12:26:26 PM by Traildust - 0 replies
Traildust from Erlanger, KY on 08/04/23 12:26:26 PM
How much parking is available at train station in Buffalo and can you long term park there while you ride back to Buffalo from Albany.


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