Roads on Erie Canal Trail
-  + A group of us typically ride for a week during the summer (GAP, C & O, Katy) we typically go 30-60 miles a day. Interested in starting from Buffalo or Syracuse the concern is how m,any and how long ar...
Discussion started 01/20/2020 03:23 PM by Mark Brown - 2 replies (last reply by wnybubba at 03/02/2020 03:00 PM)Mark Brown from ENGLEWOOD, Ohio on 01/20/2020 03:23 PM
A group of us typically ride for a week during the summer (GAP, C & O, Katy) we typically go 30-60 miles a day. Interested in starting from Buffalo or Syracuse the concern is how m,any and how long are the "road sections"? We typically like to ride on bike trails and avoid shared roads.
bobthe builder from Cleveland on 01/20/2020 08:02 PM
I feel the same way and the Canalway has a lot of road sections. BUT I was impressed by how wide and safe the NY bike lanes were
wnybubba on 03/02/2020 03:00 PM
Mark, with the Gov's goal of completing the trail in 2020, you should see less and less road sections. That said, most of the road sections are more like gaps than long distances. Additionally, many of those sections would be in more rural areas so road sharing is in less congested traffic areas.
shuttle service
-  + Would like to know about shuttle service that can accommodate a tandem from Albany to probably Rochester. Thanks
Discussion started 02/27/2020 02:25 PM by Mary - 1 reply (last reply by wnybubba at 03/02/2020 02:53 PM)Mary from Anacortes on 02/27/2020 02:25 PM
Would like to know about shuttle service that can accommodate a tandem from Albany to probably Rochester. Thanks
wnybubba from Allegany Co on 03/02/2020 02:53 PM
Not sure what you're looking for here, but I've got a hiking trip coming up in VT that I could arrange to pick up your bike get your bike to ROC
Residence Inn Rochester in Rochester
-  + Nice hotel - large comfortable room with kitchen, indoor pool (no hot tub though), good breakfast, super clean, restaurants around.
About 1.75 mile ride from Lock 33: Edgewood Road to Jefferson, th...
Discussion started 03/01/2020 03:05 PM by Psychlist - 0 repliesPsychlist on 03/01/2020 03:05 PM
Nice hotel - large comfortable room with kitchen, indoor pool (no hot tub though), good breakfast, super clean, restaurants around.
About 1.75 mile ride from Lock 33: Edgewood Road to Jefferson, then west.
Road bikes
-  + Are the trails road bike friendly??
Discussion started 08/06/2019 06:40 PM by Eva - 10 replies (last reply by Margaret at 02/28/2020 01:30 PM)Eva on 08/06/2019 06:40 PM
Are the trails road bike friendly??
Nicole from Newark, NJ on 08/06/2019 07:14 PM
I'm really eager to hear the answer to this as well!
Bop from Rochester on 08/06/2019 08:17 PM
What do you consider road friendly? I'm riding a Trek Domane and have see many different road bikes along it all the time. It's a hard pack trail that I have traveled many times from Hulberton to Newark. If you're looking for a smooth piece of asphalt, ride where your at.
The paved section in my area has root bumps bulging up here and there from the trees. Spots that will require you to cross roads. People walking dogs, kids. It's a MUP path in the larger towns.
Here, watch this. See if it's your cup of tea.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziRwUGTwfQw
Bop from Rochester on 08/07/2019 10:13 AM
Here's another good look.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODe2OvBQtMo
Margaret from Amherst on 08/07/2019 10:58 AM
HI, We did a trip from Lockport to Syracuse on the Erie Canal in June and I had a road bike- I was fine- There was a sandy section on the first day and our group elected to ride on the backroads for that small section- But most of the trail was absolutely fine.
Margaret
John from Cobleskill on 08/21/2019 10:10 AM
I am asking the same question myself since I love my road bike.
From Utica eastward is mostly paved thus a road bike is fine. The "stone dust" is okay with my hybrid but I'm going to take my road bike on stone dust soon (like in the next week or so).
But I'm wondering if all "stone dust" is created equal because there's a part of it, east of Little Falls, that listed as stone dust and is more like a 4 wheeler path through the forest than anything else.
In the end, I might upgrade my road bike tires to the biggest, fattest ones I can put on it and go for it!
John from Cobleskill on 08/24/2019 09:55 AM
Eva.... How far are you going on the Canal?
If you are doing a day trip, road bikes are fine.
But I am trying to do a Buffalo to Albany trip and I'm asking myself the same question and I've spent the greater part of this summer trying to get the right answer, trying different bikes (Mtn, road, Hybrid etc) and different tires. I've decided that doing end to end is possible with a road bike but I'm outfitting it with the best/widest/most rugged tires and tubes I can buy because parts of the canal trail is less than ideal for a road bike tire :) And I'm assuming a flat tire or two but that's the price I have to pay to use my beloved road bike.
Enjoy.
Lisa Langkawi from Langkawi Malaysia on 02/22/2020 01:20 AM
Hi, This 'road bike?' discussion is very helpful for me. I love my Canondale roadbike, which is super light, and I'm planning to fly it over from Malaysia to do the Erie Canal Trail from Buffalo to Albany in early June 2020. Currently I'm training on the roads and small padi field paths on the island of Langkawi and every time I meet gravel I have to slow right down as I can easily skid. My tires are 28mm.
I need to know are these 28mm roadbike tires going to be ok on the trail gravel, or do I need a whole new bike with gravel grinder tires? (We have a support vehicle, so I don't have to bring stuff.)
Bop from Rochester on 02/22/2020 08:47 PM
As I said last year. I'm running Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite, wire bead, 60 tpi, 700x28c on the canal since 2013 on this type of tyre. I haven't any trouble worth talking about.
There was a soft spot here and there from trail repairs on the section I ride a couple of times a week last year. That would be from Medina to Greece. I have been as far as Palmyra. I can't speak for the remainder of the trail.
John from Cobleskill on 02/28/2020 11:55 AM
Lisa Langkawi: after much Erie Canal biking (on the eastern end), I have decided to use my much beloved road bike for an end to end trip but it will be outfitted with 28mm tires and a kevlar type of tires like the Continental GatorSkin or Schwalbe Marathon tires. There are many brands and those are just two of them. But I have heard enough from people who say that 28mm tires on a road bike is good enough.
Margaret from Amherst on 02/28/2020 01:30 PM
HI, We just road the Erie Canal last summer and I rode it on a road bike with 27 1/4 Continental Touring Tires- I was fine- no flats, no worries- In most places the trail was fine- even on a really rainy day!
Registration open for Cycle the Erie Canal 2020
-  + Registration is open for Parks & Trails New York’s 22nd annual Cycle the Erie Canal tour, an opportunity to bike across New York state and take in the rich history of the legendary canal that transfor...
Discussion started 02/01/2020 12:46 PM by Ray (webmaster) - 1 reply (last reply by John at 02/27/2020 10:27 PM)Ray (webmaster) on 02/01/2020 12:46 PM
Registration is open for Parks & Trails New York’s 22nd annual Cycle the Erie Canal tour, an opportunity to bike across New York state and take in the rich history of the legendary canal that transformed America. The eight-day, 400-mile recreational bicycle tour from Buffalo to Albany is scheduled for July 12 to 19.
....
Full article:
https://www.fltimes.com/briefs/registration-open-for-cycle-the-erie-canal/article_7d739a52-7461-53dc-ad3a-624b36167d7f.html
John from Pittsburgh, PA on 02/27/2020 10:27 PM
This is a great ride!
I did the 19th version and had a fantastic time. Nice sized week long bike tour that has a fair amount of people (650 plus volunteer support staff) but not too large, like RAGBRAI, to feel overwhelming.
Parks and Trails New York (PTNY) does a great job organizing this. Breakfasts, dinners, shuttles into town, painted spots on the route for turns, rest stops/snack stations, luggage trucks, mobile shower trucks, device charging stations, and places to camp outdoors.
They also arranged for "indoor camping" if you didn't feel like camping outside. Four of the seven nights you could have slept on a gymnasium floor at the schools we stayed at. Plenty of room available. The three remaining nights were spent at a city park, Fort Stanwix, and a community center. If you wanted indoor camping at these three sites, you had an artificial grass covered indoor sports field, the YMCA or Elks Club, and numerous community center rooms respectively.
The buses back to Buffalo are all easily arranged. They do such a great job putting this together.
Highly recommend this tour.
John
bikikng from utica to albany--can I rent a bike and go one way?
-  + I want to fly into utica and out of albany--is there a bike rental option that I could rent in utica, and drop off in albany? Thanks!
Discussion started 02/10/2020 11:36 AM by Nancy - 1 reply (last reply by Cindy Johnson at 02/17/2020 01:45 AM)Nancy from florida on 02/10/2020 11:36 AM
I want to fly into utica and out of albany--is there a bike rental option that I could rent in utica, and drop off in albany? Thanks!
Cindy Johnson from Golden on 02/17/2020 01:45 AM
I have the same question but from Buffalo to Albany.
Lock 21 State Campsite in Rome
-  + I want to bike the trail this Spring - can my wife meet me and spend the night in an RV?
Discussion started 01/18/2020 08:31 PM by Otto - 0 repliesOtto from Palmview, TX on 01/18/2020 08:31 PM
I want to bike the trail this Spring - can my wife meet me and spend the night in an RV?
What's new since 2014
-  + In 2014, I took a self supported trip from Buffalo to Albany on the trail. I'm looking forward to another trip this summer. I recall that it was about 80 percent complete back then. It was like bicyc...
Discussion started 01/16/2020 08:48 PM by PGM - 0 repliesPGM from Akron, OH on 01/16/2020 08:48 PM
In 2014, I took a self supported trip from Buffalo to Albany on the trail. I'm looking forward to another trip this summer. I recall that it was about 80 percent complete back then. It was like bicycling through a living history of transportation. Can't wait.
Nine Mile Island camping area in Pendleton
-  + Are there hot showers? Do they allow small dogs?
Discussion started 01/14/2020 01:27 AM by Steven Gaub - 0 repliesSteven Gaub from Lakewood on 01/14/2020 01:27 AM
Are there hot showers? Do they allow small dogs?
Peace Bridge to Niagara Falls video
-  + Not directly on the Erie Canal, but it's very accessible in Buffalo and very cool - a ride to Niagara Falls from the Peace Bridge.
https://youtu.be/Tmy5Imz9fKw
Thanks to Pat StillRiding for sha...
Discussion started 09/11/2019 09:23 AM by Ray S (webmaster) - 2 replies (last reply by Steven Gaub at 01/14/2020 01:23 AM)Ray S (webmaster) on 09/11/2019 09:23 AM
Not directly on the Erie Canal, but it's very accessible in Buffalo and very cool - a ride to Niagara Falls from the Peace Bridge.
https://youtu.be/Tmy5Imz9fKw
Thanks to Pat StillRiding for sharing
Stillriding from Pittsburgh, PA. on 09/11/2019 11:41 AM
Thanks for sharing Ray. This ride was so fun.
Steven Gaub from Lakewood on 01/14/2020 01:23 AM
Love the video looking forward to this as an addon ride.
syracuse hotels near trail
-  + Hi looking to find a hotel for group to stay at for ist night prior to start of ride to Albany. Will also need to have parking for car to be left at for return to pick up. Planner only gives two hot...
Discussion started 01/09/2020 05:58 PM by Dennis - 1 reply (last reply by bobthe builder at 01/09/2020 10:18 PM)Dennis from Baltimore on 01/09/2020 05:58 PM
Hi looking to find a hotel for group to stay at for ist night prior to start of ride to Albany. Will also need to have parking for car to be left at for return to pick up. Planner only gives two hotels which I do not know how close to trail. Will be riding in August or late September.
bobthe builder from Cleveland on 01/09/2020 10:18 PM
Avoid the Econolodge Dewitt. Rooms came with condoms!
Support and lodging along Erie Canal
-  + I plan on biking the full length of the canal next spring from west to east, probably around 60 - 70 miles per day along with 5 friends. We want to stay in hotels or B&Bs.
Are there any outfitters t...
Discussion started 11/24/2019 01:32 PM by Jki - 1 reply (last reply by Davd Greene at 01/01/2020 06:44 PM)Jki from Columbia, Maryland on 11/24/2019 01:32 PM
I plan on biking the full length of the canal next spring from west to east, probably around 60 - 70 miles per day along with 5 friends. We want to stay in hotels or B&Bs.
Are there any outfitters that will carry our clothes etc., to our lodging each day. Also wondering what the transportation options are for getting ourselves and our bikes back from Albany to our Western start once we finish.
Davd Greene from Raleigh, NC on 01/01/2020 06:44 PM
I did the Erie Canal ride this past may over 6 days. I used https://www.gobikeerie.com/ which is now GREAT AMERICAN BIKE TOURS https://www.cycletheusa.com/
I rented a hybrid and pannier bags from them, and they provided phone map application of the route as well as took care of hotel reservations. I was a solo loosely supported rider, but there was a group of four woman that were supported. It was a bit expensive. I flew into Buffalo. Took the bus (<$5) to downtown where they met us at the hotel and had my bike and equipment waiting. The ride was fairly easy, but about 11 miles of it had the wrong crushed stone, so it was very loose and mushy. Parts of the ride a definitely on roadways, but not too bad. When I got to Albany, I just left the bike at the hotel and they cam later and picked it up. I took the hotel shuttle to the Albany airport and flew home. I understand they will suttle you if you need it.
Running from Buffalo to Syracuse
-  + Hi everyone! I'm running/hiking from Buffalo to Syracuse (tentatively in mid-late spring). I plan on doing this over the course of 5 days. I've done adventure runs like this before (I ran across Irela...
Discussion started 11/21/2019 12:20 PM by Ryan Sauerman - 0 repliesRyan Sauerman from Rochester on 11/21/2019 12:20 PM
Hi everyone! I'm running/hiking from Buffalo to Syracuse (tentatively in mid-late spring). I plan on doing this over the course of 5 days. I've done adventure runs like this before (I ran across Ireland a few years ago). Just wanted to throw this out here in case anyone was interested in joining for some training or a portion of the actual event. If so, you can email me at ryansauerman@yahoo.com -subject: Buffalo-Syracuse trip. I hope to see you out on the trail!
Buffalo-Syracuse or Syracuse - Albany
-  + If you had to choose only half of the Canal to bike which end would you choose.
Discussion started 11/12/2018 11:27 AM by Bob Emmerich - 5 replies (last reply by John from Cobleskill at 11/06/2019 04:06 AM)Bob Emmerich from Now Rocky Pt., NY and West Melbourne,FL-Grew up West Islip, NY-raised family-Patchogue Ny on 11/12/2018 11:27 AM
If you had to choose only half of the Canal to bike which end would you choose.
trek620 from san diego on 11/13/2018 05:56 PM
Just finished route from Albany to Buffalo (before it was snowing). Because of the headwinds, I would say Syracuse to Albany would be my choice. Plenty to see on each leg. Be sure to visit the Erie Canal Museum in Syracuse.
John W. from Pittsburgh, PA on 12/25/2018 04:57 PM
I rode the Cycle the Erie Canal event in 2017 and I would choose the western end, Buffalo to Syracuse. Just my personal opinion as it seems more of the canal is intact and on trails in this half. The first miles out of Buffalo to the Tonawandas are paved. I would do west to east as prevailing winds typically go that way and also at the locks you are going downhill as opposed to uphill but these are not very noticeable to be fair. Either way is fine though, it's great riding either end!
lindsey english from amesbury ma on 08/19/2019 08:43 AM
Gday!
I'm considering doing a section of the canal trail going west to east at the end of this month. I've been checking out different websites to inform myself about the bike trail but thought I'd ask about some specifics.
I'd do a more eastern part since I'm driving from the Boston area. I'm thinking of a 3 day trip, staying in cities/towns along trail. Good places to eat. Then of course, transport back to my starting point.
I haven't done a whole lot of riding lately and I'm not exactly a spring chicken (I'm an active, healthy 71).
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you;
Lindsey English
Swiss Foot from Albany on 11/03/2019 01:13 PM
Planning On cycling the Canal next weekend in its entierity, heard of a lot of rain hitting central New York last few days, curious if anyone has intel on conditions of the path now.
John from Cobleskill on 11/06/2019 04:06 AM
Wet. There has been a lot of flooding on the eastern end of the EC. This doesn't effect the trail much but where there is "stone dust", you might run into a certain amount of mud.
If you are tenting, finding a dry piece of ground will not be as easy as if you were doing in mid July. But none of this should stop your efforts. Best of luck to you.
Three day section of the EC
-  + I'm planning a three day ride with my pal who has asthma. Would like to do about 35-35 miles a day. We are planning to stay at local B&B's. Can anyone recommend a section of the EC that would be sceni...
Discussion started 10/27/2019 10:09 PM by JH - 0 repliesJH from Bourne Ma ( Cape Cod ) on 10/27/2019 10:09 PM
I'm planning a three day ride with my pal who has asthma. Would like to do about 35-35 miles a day. We are planning to stay at local B&B's. Can anyone recommend a section of the EC that would be scenic and have B&B's available for three nights ? Also , I was thinking of hiring an Uber each morning to bring our gear / gym bag to our next stop . Any thoughts on that cost ?
Thanks for your assistance....
Buffalo to Tonawanda section?
-  + I just met a couple that were doing the Buffalo to Albany trip and they said that the only thing they would change on the trip is that they would NOT start in Buffalo but rather at the start of the Er...
Discussion started 09/14/2019 02:28 PM by John from Cobleskill - 3 replies (last reply by John from Cobleskill at 10/14/2019 09:10 AM)John from Cobleskill from Cobleskill on 09/14/2019 02:28 PM
I just met a couple that were doing the Buffalo to Albany trip and they said that the only thing they would change on the trip is that they would NOT start in Buffalo but rather at the start of the Erie Canal itself in Tonawanda. They didn't offer details but they were less than thrilled by this section.
Does anyone have insight to this section? Is it "bad"? I've thought about starting in Tonawanda but I'm not sure. Please advise.
Chris from East Aurora, NY on 10/01/2019 03:09 PM
This 1st part pertains to part of the EC trail leaving downtown Buffalo, along the Niagara River heading North:
The part of the Shoreline Trail that was closed since spring for water line repairs at the GM Tonawanda Engine plant has reopened to walkers and bicyclists.
The project's general contractor informed Erie County officials Thursday that they've refilled and paved over where crews had worked and they've removed the fencing that cut off the trail.
The lengthy construction period frustrated users of the Riverwalk section of the trail that runs along the Niagara River and Lake Erie.
This is a another piece of recent good news:
A 2.1-mile gap in the Erie Canalway Trail was closed this year with the construction of a trail along East Canal Road in Pendleton, from Tonawanda Creek to Feigle Road.
The completion of the $4.5 million project will be marked with a ceremony at 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Feigle Road trailhead parking lot.
Chris from East Aurora, NY on 10/01/2019 03:35 PM
John,
Canalside is downtown Buffalo is a beautiful recently restored area with lots to see and do, including the adjacent Naval Park with a couple large Naval ships and WW II era submarine. The trail leaving Canalside winds through some downtown parks and townhome developments along the Lake Erie Harbor to the beginning of the Niagara River at the Peace Bridge where there is a brand new scenic ramp taking bikers and walkers from one grade to another. From that point there are some not great sections along Niagara Street for less than a mile, and then that wind around various roads and hwy on/off ramps for another mile or so. You have to be on your toes to follow the trail, as it is pretty choppy in this section. Eventually the dedicated path resumes and follows the edge of the Niagara River, which is beautiful, even though a highway runs next to the path but is well separated by a fence and landscaping. The trail then passes by some older industrial areas on the way toward Tonawanda, but over all this section is good to go.
John from Cobleskill on 10/14/2019 09:10 AM
Thank you for the information!!
October Buffalo to Albany
-  + Would love to plan a ride this October and am looking for companions. Will use my road bike with wider tires(32's) and hope to do about 40-60 miles per day. Maybe camp, Warmshowers.org or hotel, whate...
Discussion started 09/03/2019 09:25 PM by Adventurous cyclist - 3 replies (last reply by Frank at 10/11/2019 10:20 PM)Adventurous cyclist from Glastonbury on 09/03/2019 09:25 PM
Would love to plan a ride this October and am looking for companions. Will use my road bike with wider tires(32's) and hope to do about 40-60 miles per day. Maybe camp, Warmshowers.org or hotel, whatever is closest to the trail. I'm open. Would like to stop and enjoy some of the history. I'm a 62 year old married triathlete in good shape but not particularly fast (c or c+ level). I can go slow or be encouraged to move along faster. Let me know if there is any interest.
Thanks.
david gorman from hollidaysburg, pa on 09/11/2019 11:19 AM
Yes I am interested and would love to do it as a group. I am a former triathlete (hip issues) who now does aquabikes so your "formula" sounds perfect. Let me know what and when you have this in mind. Perhaps a week, plus or minus.
John from Cobleskill from Cobleskill on 09/12/2019 07:43 AM
I'm maybe open to the idea. Please let me know what you are thinking because I'm a C rider and using a road bike too. 40-60 miles a day is right in the area what I'm looking to do.
Frank from Heber Springs, AR on 10/11/2019 10:20 PM
Is there a date in mind for this ride? I'm heading to Rochester week of 20th and plan to ride Buffalo to Rochester and maybe beyond. Can I get this done on a road bike (30mm).
First Century Ride
-  + I'm heading to Rochester the week of Oct 21st by plane. I'll be there leaf peeping but need to check off a bucket list item...my first century ride. PLanning from Buffalo to Rochester on the towpath b...
Discussion started 10/10/2019 09:56 PM by Frank - 0 repliesFrank from Heber Springs, AR on 10/10/2019 09:56 PM
I'm heading to Rochester the week of Oct 21st by plane. I'll be there leaf peeping but need to check off a bucket list item...my first century ride. PLanning from Buffalo to Rochester on the towpath but open for suggestions. Also need bike advice. I can ship mine or rent one locally. I have a touring bike (40mm tires) and a road bike (30mm). Could use help on condition info for the towpath or other options as well as bike rentals available.
Ebike
-  + Coming east this summer with my class I ebike. Are they still not allowed on the canal trail.
Discussion started 10/10/2019 05:18 PM by Bob Blakey - 0 repliesBob Blakey from Lewiston Idaho on 10/10/2019 05:18 PM
Coming east this summer with my class I ebike. Are they still not allowed on the canal trail.
post to Facebook
or share this link to just this thread:
Ebike
https://bikeeriecanal.com/talk.aspx?tid=127&tonly=1
Albany
-  + What is the address for the start (well end) of the Erie Canal
bike trail in Albany?
Discussion started 09/29/2019 01:29 PM by Judy Stoecklin - 0 repliesJudy Stoecklin from Sanbornton, on 09/29/2019 01:29 PM
What is the address for the start (well end) of the Erie Canal
bike trail in Albany?
post to Facebook
or share this link to just this thread:
Albany
https://bikeeriecanal.com/talk.aspx?tid=126&tonly=1
Middleport facilities
-  + Glad we stayed on recommendation of the Lockport lockmaster. There were public washrooms and showers available for a donation. Recommend $20. Pony's was affordable.
Discussion started 09/28/2019 08:26 PM by PJ - 0 repliesPJ from Waterloo, ON on 09/28/2019 08:26 PM
Glad we stayed on recommendation of the Lockport lockmaster. There were public washrooms and showers available for a donation. Recommend $20. Pony's was affordable.
Lock 15 State Campsite in Fort Plain
-  + Expecting to camp at block 15. Can someone tell me if they think there will be room there for us me
Discussion started 09/13/2019 06:27 AM by Tom Ritchey Breakaway traveling Utica to Albany 9/14/19 - 1 reply (last reply by John from Cobleskill at 09/14/2019 02:23 PM)Tom Ritchey Breakaway traveling Utica to Albany 9/14/19 on 09/13/2019 06:27 AM
Expecting to camp at block 15. Can someone tell me if they think there will be room there for us me
John from Cobleskill from Cobleskill on 09/14/2019 02:23 PM
yes there's a lot of room at Lock 15
Watervliet to Canajoharie Two Day trip
-  + looking to do a late fall, two day trip along the very eastern end of the Erie Canal trail. I'll plan the length of the days dependant upon the trail condition. Looking for some local knowledge on t...
Discussion started 09/09/2019 11:18 AM by PJT - 3 replies (last reply by PJT at 09/13/2019 01:04 PM)PJT from Montreal Quebec on 09/09/2019 11:18 AM
looking to do a late fall, two day trip along the very eastern end of the Erie Canal trail. I'll plan the length of the days dependant upon the trail condition. Looking for some local knowledge on the section between Albany and Canajoharie. What percentage is paved? How passable will the unpaved sections be in early November? Thanks!
Joseph Pafundi from Saratoga Springs on 09/10/2019 06:56 AM
Bonjour et bienvenue aux Etats-Unis!
I very often cycle this segment and it's safe to say that 90% of your proposed travels will be on paved surfaces. If I am not mistaken, the largest un-paved section is from Fort Hunter to Fultonville.
Bon sejour!
P.S. Be careful of a section between Rotterdam Junction and Pattersonville. This is on road (1 mile and 1/2) and very busy with trucks whizzing by.
John from Cobleskill from Cobleskill on 09/12/2019 07:34 AM
I often ride this section often and as far as being paved, I think from Albany to St Johnsville is one of the nicest (easiest, smoothest) sections of the Erie Canal. There is a short section (4 miles) between Amsterdam and Fultonville that is stone dust but that's no big deal in November. That starts close to the Schoharie Crossing site (which is worth a stop).
Good luck
PJT from Montreal Quebec on 09/13/2019 01:04 PM
thank you Joseph and John....much appreciated
Lock 15 State Campsite in Fort Plain
-  + Does any have an opinion about my chances of being able to camp at Lock 15. Will it be full? Is it safe? Thank you.
Discussion started 09/13/2019 06:23 AM by Tom Ritchey Breakaway traveling Utuca to Albany 9/13/19 - 0 repliesTom Ritchey Breakaway traveling Utuca to Albany 9/13/19 on 09/13/2019 06:23 AM
Does any have an opinion about my chances of being able to camp at Lock 15. Will it be full? Is it safe? Thank you.
Lockport to Palmyra on the EC Bike Trail
-  + Our 2 day/1 night west to east ride the last weekend of June 2019 on the ECBT from Lockport to Palmyra, midway between Rochester and Syracuse was really fantastic and memorable. We left a car near the...
Discussion started 08/27/2019 03:18 PM by Chris - 1 reply (last reply by Corinne at 08/29/2019 07:07 AM)Chris from East Aurora, NY on 08/27/2019 03:18 PM
Our 2 day/1 night west to east ride the last weekend of June 2019 on the ECBT from Lockport to Palmyra, midway between Rochester and Syracuse was really fantastic and memorable. We left a car near the police station in Lockport and the same in Palmyra. We overnighted in Brockport at the Victorian B&B and did about 45 miles both days, which was perfect for recreational bikers. The trail mostly followed the canal closely and was like one long beautifully maintained park. The villages along the way were scenic and historic, and we found a great lunch spot in Albion at the Village Café, less than a mile off the trail. For the most part the trail surface was great for the crossover/hybrid type bikes/tires we rode. A few lengthy sections were recently "repaved" with a hard packed sand-pebble type material that should be great with a bit of time/use and seasoning. It was a bit tacky being recently put down, but not a big deal. The section thru Rochester was on paved trail through more suburban, urban and industrial areas (with quite a few tree root bumps), but all in all just fine. If you are looking for a great overnighter or a couple one day sections, I would highly recommend Lockport to Brockport or Spencerport, and on the other side of Rochester, Pittsford to Palmyra, Newark or Lyons. Really beautiful, peaceful, scenic and easy to ride!!
Corinne on 08/29/2019 07:07 AM
Is there transportation if I only have one car?
Canajoharie how far west of Canajoharie to find a restroom?
-  + How far west of Canajoharie do you need to bicycle before finding a public restroom (or restaurant with a restroom)?
Discussion started 08/23/2019 06:09 PM by Electric bike - 1 reply (last reply by John from Cobleskill at 08/24/2019 09:46 AM)Electric bike from Schoharie County on 08/23/2019 06:09 PM
How far west of Canajoharie do you need to bicycle before finding a public restroom (or restaurant with a restroom)?
John from Cobleskill on 08/24/2019 09:46 AM
West? There's a Save a Lot in Fort Plain that's right on the pathway.
Going east from Canajo there's a church in Sprakers (?) that is open and offers a bathroom and water to those using the path.
October Day Ride in/around Syracuse
-  + Hi everyone.
Anyone have a good recommendation for a 4-6 hour ride in/around Syracuse that would make for a scenic day trip in October? Something paved would be ideal, though we could bring our hybrid...
Discussion started 08/19/2019 09:06 PM by Hokie - 0 repliesHokie from Southern Tier on 08/19/2019 09:06 PM
Hi everyone.
Anyone have a good recommendation for a 4-6 hour ride in/around Syracuse that would make for a scenic day trip in October? Something paved would be ideal, though we could bring our hybrids if there's some rough terrain that opens up a more beautiful part of the trail.
Overnight Parking in Rochester
-  + Where can I park overnight in Rochester? I'd like to bike over to Macedon, camp there and then return?
Discussion started 08/14/2019 08:04 PM by Dan - 1 reply (last reply by Bop at 08/15/2019 07:47 PM)Dan from Manchester, Ct on 08/14/2019 08:04 PM
Where can I park overnight in Rochester? I'd like to bike over to Macedon, camp there and then return?
Bop from Rochester on 08/15/2019 07:47 PM
https://www.yellowpages.com/search-map/rochester-ny/overnight-parking
Can't vouch for any or know of any. From the list, Mapco Auto Parks is the nearest to a canal entrance. Less than a mile.
Canalway Parking lot at Amsterday
-  + Hello:
Is it safe/legal to leave your car overnight at the canalway parking lot in Amsterdam NY.
Thanks,
Discussion started 08/06/2019 09:44 PM by NewB - 0 repliesNewB from Schenectady NY on 08/06/2019 09:44 PM
Hello:
Is it safe/legal to leave your car overnight at the canalway parking lot in Amsterdam NY.
Thanks,
Black Brook Park in Clyde
-  + I called to make a camping reservation and was told that camping is not allowed!
Discussion started 08/05/2019 09:17 AM by Brad - 1 reply (last reply by Ray S (webmaster) at 08/06/2019 09:21 PM)Brad on 08/05/2019 09:17 AM
I called to make a camping reservation and was told that camping is not allowed!
Ray S (webmaster) on 08/06/2019 09:21 PM
Thank you for this update - I have removed Camping from the amenities at Black Brook Park.
trail conditions
-  + hello...we are planning on staying in pittsford and taking a couple of day rides...we want to head west for 10-15 miles and turn around and do the same heading east for 10-15 miles...
...my concern i...
Discussion started 08/02/2019 11:11 PM by xfiveo - 1 reply (last reply by Bop at 08/03/2019 07:28 AM)xfiveo from buffalo on 08/02/2019 11:11 PM
hello...we are planning on staying in pittsford and taking a couple of day rides...we want to head west for 10-15 miles and turn around and do the same heading east for 10-15 miles...
...my concern is that I've heard that the trail is more of a "hard packed" surface and may be soft ot sandy if it should rain making it more challenging to ride with our road bikes with 28mm tires...
...does anyone know anything about this ??? ...thank you !!
Bop from Rochester on 08/03/2019 07:28 AM
The canal West of Pittsford is paved all the way to Long Pond Road, in Greece. Going east, it's the normal hard pack surface. A hard downpour could soften the path somewhat. On the lead page https://bikeeriecanal.com/forum.aspx
There's a picture showing what the path looks like east of Pittsford for the most part.
Buffalo to Syracuse or Syracuse to Albany?
-  + Hi, first timer here. We're going to do a five day bike trip in late September early October. Do you think the Buffalo to Syracuse section, or the Syracuse to Albany section is nicer, in terms o...
Discussion started 07/25/2019 03:53 PM by John Fry - 1 reply (last reply by BobTheBuilder at 07/30/2019 04:30 PM)John Fry from Park City Utah on 07/25/2019 03:53 PM
Hi, first timer here. We're going to do a five day bike trip in late September early October. Do you think the Buffalo to Syracuse section, or the Syracuse to Albany section is nicer, in terms of riding quality, scenery, traffic noise, general ambiance? Thanks, John
BobTheBuilder from Cleveland, Ohio on 07/30/2019 04:30 PM
Buffalo to Syracuse more trail, less roads
Buffalo to Albany July 10th - 21st
-  + Recap of our trip and tips:
Carry at least 3 water bottles if it's hot. Water sometimes scarce.
Coming into Rochester from the west, locals told us this is "Indian country". People have been ambushed...
Discussion started 07/30/2019 09:29 AM by BobTheBuilder - 0 repliesBobTheBuilder from Cleveland, Ohio on 07/30/2019 09:29 AM
Recap of our trip and tips:
Carry at least 3 water bottles if it's hot. Water sometimes scarce.
Coming into Rochester from the west, locals told us this is "Indian country". People have been ambushed and mugged. Ride in groups.
We had a layover day in Rochester and rode the Genesee River Trail up to Lake Ontario. First 3 miles not a trail. Rode through some scary neighborhoods, then it turned beautiful.
Be careful following the pavement trail markers put down by the previous bike tour group. They sometimes take you out of the way to rest stops and overnights.
Went through Syracuse on a Saturday. Farmers market, food and live music on the square. Pretty cool.
Between Syracuse and Rome is the Fort Stanwix visitor center. Worth a stop for sure.
Nice restaurant on the canal at Little Falls.
Good hotels: Best Western Lockport,Village Inn Albion, Rochester Riverside, Newark Garden Inn, Days Inn Weedsport,Quality Inn Rome, Red Roof Inn Herkimer, Quality Inn Schenectady (awesome breakfast).
Worst Hotels: Econolodge Syracuse/Dewit, (free condoms in your room), Palatine Bridge Motel (really weird residence motor court. Safe, clean-ish, oddball characters hanging around, people knocking on our doors at night wanting beer, but an interesting experience. Didn't really feel unsafe but memorable).
Amtrak to Buffalo and home from Albany worked out great!
And like my Buddy Mark said "every night's Friday night!"