Medina
- + is the canal path going to be fixed from medina to Rochester. its terrible after all the tree cutting
Discussion started 03/19/2019 08:52 AM by matt - 10 replies (last reply by Bop at 07/01/2019 06:07 PM)matt from medina on 03/19/2019 08:52 AM
is the canal path going to be fixed from medina to Rochester. its terrible after all the tree cutting
Bop from Rochester on 03/23/2019 04:29 PM
It was rideable last year between Huberton and Rochester. A few bad spots here and there. This winter they'd looked to have made a mess of it along East canal road between Brockport and Route 260. Just west of route 260 running halfway towards Brockport. I haven't been on it trail yet, so I don't the condition from Rochester and Hulberton right now.
Bop from Rochester on 04/02/2019 07:10 PM
Update. The west end of the trail is closed a Fayette st in Brockport. The east end at Sweden Walker Rd has a sign saying "rough trail ahead"
Heavy equipment was moving all along the trail between these points.
I didn't see and work going on between Sweden Walker Rd and Henpeck Park in Greece.
Bop from Rochester on 04/17/2019 03:50 PM
Just biked from Henpeck park (Greece) to Sweden Walker Rd. The path is still closed from there to Brockport. They've run a tracked wheeled vehicle from east of Adams Basin to Spencerport. There's now 2 rumble strips embedded along parts of the trail. Otherwise same as I remember it from fall.
jrstewart3 from Rochester on 05/28/2019 09:11 PM
any updates to this .....mess.
Bop from Rochester on 05/29/2019 08:17 AM
Had a operation last week and I'm off the bike for six weeks (groin hernia). But, did a car recon. Brockport still closed from Sweden Walker Rd to town. No idea what on going west from there. Look's ok from Henpeck park to Sweden Walker.
Around May 1 I tried to ride from Huberton to Greece. Bad. The first mile east leaving Huberton was a wreck. They've scattered Railroad size ballast rocks all over the path. Then it's ok to Holly.
The same size rocks were dumped from Holly to Bennetts Corners Rd overpass. Ok from there to County Line Boat launch. Started going to hell a bit from here to Old West Ave. Unrideable from there to Redman road. Had to walk the bike to Rednan. Didn't look any better east of there.
They may have screwed the path for good, for fast bike riding.
jrstewart3 from Rochester on 05/29/2019 08:55 AM
Hopefully they get it restored before the big ride across the state in July!
MarkMeyerson from Arlington, VA on 06/10/2019 12:40 PM
Hey, wanted to do the trip from Medina to Rochester and back on 6/30
I see there may be some parts closed? will that be done by 6/30?
are their alternatives to get around the closures?
Also, was planning on taking a road bike...is it paved that strech
and if not is it in good conditions (I have 23 tires that aren't horrible on good hard pack trails)
Thanks
Bop from Rochester on 06/10/2019 04:08 PM
Mark, I don't believe there's anyone on this site has any insight on what will be fixed and open. I also ride a road bike on the canal and in the past it's been ok.
The only long paved section starts at Long Pond Rd in greece and ends at Pittsford.
I won't be back on my bike until about the time you'll be coming so I won't have any new first hand knowledge to share here.
If you have to bail off the canal after Holly Route 31 is a good choice, wide shoulders and you can ride it past the section that was or is closed in brockport, then to the Sweden Walker Rd canal entrance. That was fine to Greece on my last ride.
MarkMeyerson from Arlington, VA on 07/01/2019 05:10 PM
medina to brockport is 100% open now did a 50 mile round trip 6/30
loose dirt on some of the new sections will slow you down a little, but still in great shape
Bop from Rochester on 07/01/2019 06:07 PM
Thanks for the news Mark. I generally ride from Greece to Huberton, then the lake.
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Medina
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Trail west of Buffalo
- + This is the response i got from "Parks & Trails NY" when I asked if the trail would be fixed in time for the annual ride:
"We contacted the NYS Canal Corporation on your behalf and this is the inform...
Discussion started 06/16/2019 09:08 PM by jrstewart3 - 2 replies (last reply by MarkMeyerson at 07/01/2019 05:08 PM)jrstewart3 from Rochester on 06/16/2019 09:08 PM
This is the response i got from "Parks & Trails NY" when I asked if the trail would be fixed in time for the annual ride:
"We contacted the NYS Canal Corporation on your behalf and this is the information they provided us with:"
Trail Notice: Embankment Work Underway!
Due to ongoing construction work, trail conditions are poor between Middleport in Niagara County, through Orleans County to Spencerport in Monroe County. This work will be ongoing through the end of June. Please use caution in this section or choose an alternate route, and see our map for more information.
Additionally, the trail is closed between Fayette Street and Sweden Walker Road in Brockport for construction activity, and localized closures of other stretches of the trail may occur as needed to facilitate the ongoing construction route. Please proceed with caution and seek alternate routes where possible.
The work is expected to be complete and the trail restored to like-new conditions in time for the Cycle the Erie Canal tour from July 6 to July 14.
Bop from Rochester on 06/18/2019 08:46 AM
I have do doubt the ride will go on. The wording "restored to like-new conditions" has me more that a bit worried. Just from what I saw east of Hulberton this spring, with no equipment remaining on site.
MarkMeyerson from Arlington, VA on 07/01/2019 05:08 PM
the areas from Medina to brockport were outstanding and 'just like-new' IMO
need for construction signs on canal path
- + We parked in Medina to ride the canal path. We were not allowed to head west as they were laying new stone and rolling with heavy equipment. We headed east towards Albion, but ran into another constru...
Discussion started 06/29/2019 06:50 AM by jay - 1 reply (last reply by MarkMeyerson at 07/01/2019 05:05 PM)jay on 06/29/2019 06:50 AM
We parked in Medina to ride the canal path. We were not allowed to head west as they were laying new stone and rolling with heavy equipment. We headed east towards Albion, but ran into another construction crew. It is great that they are improving the trail and we look forward to riding again, but it would be great if signs are posted at parking areas to inform riders of closed areas. We could have easily traveled east or west beyond the construction to start our trip.
MarkMeyerson from Arlington, VA on 07/01/2019 05:05 PM
Looks like a lot of the work is done, albeit the trail is a little loose on top.
I rode from Median to Brockport uninterrupted along the canal on 6/30
There was still evidence of work, but fully operation east bound
Canal Park in Holley
- + Called the phone number given on the canal app, which is not in service. Stopped by the police station, but the door was locked. Called the police (non emergency number) and nobody answered. Called t...
Discussion started 06/29/2019 06:57 PM by Canal cyclist - 2 replies (last reply by Ray S (webmaster) at 06/30/2019 08:39 AM)Canal cyclist from Capital region, NY on 06/29/2019 06:57 PM
Called the phone number given on the canal app, which is not in service. Stopped by the police station, but the door was locked. Called the police (non emergency number) and nobody answered. Called the sheriffs dept. (non emergency) and nobody answered. Finally found out from a neighbor of the park that
camping is NOT allowed in Holley (June 2019). We were told the new restriction is because some campers annoyed the boaters who were nearby and also docked up for the night. This is unfortunate as Holley has a wonderful park, some of it along the canal, and cyclists staying overnight would spend $ at local stores and restaurants if they knew they could safely stay the night. The gate keeper was wonderful and gave us the code to access the bathrooms and showers available for the boaters. Shouldn't long distance cyclists be given the same opportunities as boaters? Let's make it easier to recreate along the canal, not harder. Somebody should fix this, or at least update the info on the state's app and website.
Margaret from Amherst, OH on 06/30/2019 08:05 AM
Yes, I found this out too- we stopped there for lunch and the park is So lovely! So too bad some people had to ruin this! We stayed at the Friendly Hotel in Spencerport instead- very reasonable fees. But the park is beautiful in Holley. I called all the places you did- luckily before we left, what a bummer!
Ray S (webmaster) on 06/30/2019 08:39 AM
That's really a shame that Holley turned it back on all bike tourists because of the actions of a few.
I have removed Camping from the amenities for Holley Park. Thanks for the heads-up.
Pittsford
- + Where do i park in Pittsford to ride the canal
Discussion started 06/27/2019 02:04 PM by Deb - 1 reply (last reply by Bop at 06/27/2019 03:25 PM)Deb from Reading PA on 06/27/2019 02:04 PM
Where do i park in Pittsford to ride the canal
Bop from Rochester on 06/27/2019 03:25 PM
https://rocwiki.org/Schoen_Place
If there's any parking left. Or any place near there, it's a small area near that part of the canal.
trail from Rome to Little Falls
- + I watched a youtube video that showed poor road conditions and miles of trail on big highway with noisy heavy traffic.
It was in the section east of rome. I've rode west from Rome to Spencerport and ...
Discussion started 06/25/2019 09:11 PM by johnnie J - 0 repliesjohnnie J from Ocean City on 06/25/2019 09:11 PM
I watched a youtube video that showed poor road conditions and miles of trail on big highway with noisy heavy traffic.
It was in the section east of rome. I've rode west from Rome to Spencerport and trail was mostly decent/good. Anyone have comments. I plan to bike it in a few weeks.
Just completed Lockport- Syracuse family bike trip
- + Hi, We just completed our one week dual family bike trip on the Erie Canal. We rode from Lockport to Syracuse and had an amazing experience with 13 riders! We braved the downpour this past Thursday ...
Discussion started 06/23/2019 07:41 PM by Margaret - 3 replies (last reply by Chris at 06/25/2019 11:15 AM)Margaret from Amherst, OH on 06/23/2019 07:41 PM
Hi, We just completed our one week dual family bike trip on the Erie Canal. We rode from Lockport to Syracuse and had an amazing experience with 13 riders! We braved the downpour this past Thursday and the kids were real troopers riding in the rain! Happy to fill anyone in on trail conditions or anything else.
Chris from East Aurora, NY on 06/24/2019 02:25 PM
Hello Margaret,
We are riding the same section of the trail this coming weekend, Lockport to Palmyra Were there any major construction areas that meant detouring off the trail? Were there areas that were tough to ride, or is the path in pretty good shape overall? Thx!
Margaret from Amherst, OH on 06/24/2019 03:13 PM
Hi,
Yes there were some detours- the most notable one is in Spencerport. The trail was closed- but from the closure point (riding west-east) we took a left from the trail and rode about a mile then took a right then another right onto Sweden Walker Road which brought us back to the trail where it was open. Also there is a detour in Rochester- but very well marked and no issue there- We rode in to see the High Falls-on the Genesee River Trail. That was great. After Lockport there were parts of the trail that were sandy and we found some parallel roads to travel as we spent first night at a campground on Lake Ontario. WE rode Thursday in a huge downpour but the trail ( between Spencerport and Clyde) was great- it was wet but not muddy- really pretty good for the amount of rain we got. We also took a detour down to Seneca Falls and stayed at Cayuga Lake State Park. I think some of the construction may be finished by the time you ride. Oh- and after the big storm there were a few trees down on the trail- but nothing we could not get by. It was really excellent- I hope you have a great ride- Happy to answer any other questions.
Chris from East Aurora, NY on 06/25/2019 11:15 AM
Awesome, Planning to do the High Falls section as well. Thanks Margaret!
Rome-parking
- + Anyone know if there’s a designated place I can leave my vehicle for 2 nights in Rome as I ride back to my car after being shuttled 100 miles East?
Thanks
Discussion started 06/24/2019 09:13 PM by Matt - 0 repliesMatt from Reading,PA on 06/24/2019 09:13 PM
Anyone know if there’s a designated place I can leave my vehicle for 2 nights in Rome as I ride back to my car after being shuttled 100 miles East?
Thanks
Best 100 miles?
- + A friend and I only have 2 nights. We can ride 1/2 day, a full day then 1 more half day. We want to take our time and enjoy the sights. We want to avoid the cities as much as possible.
Anyone have a ...
Discussion started 06/24/2019 07:34 PM by Matt - 0 repliesMatt from Reading, PA on 06/24/2019 07:34 PM
A friend and I only have 2 nights. We can ride 1/2 day, a full day then 1 more half day. We want to take our time and enjoy the sights. We want to avoid the cities as much as possible.
Anyone have a recommendation on their favorite 100 mile section of this trail?
Green Lakes State Park in Syracuse
- + anyone stay here while travelling the trail. thank you
Discussion started 06/23/2019 02:28 PM by robert levac - 0 repliesrobert levac from windsor on 06/23/2019 02:28 PM
anyone stay here while travelling the trail. thank you
Trail conditions
- + We're heading west on the trail and we are currently staying an extra day at the Quality Inn in Rome because of the torrential downpours that are supposed to go on all day. 1 to 2 inches of rain predi...
Discussion started 06/20/2019 08:53 AM by Connie & Rob - 2 replies (last reply by Margaret at 06/20/2019 03:19 PM)Connie & Rob from Madbury, NH on 06/20/2019 08:53 AM
We're heading west on the trail and we are currently staying an extra day at the Quality Inn in Rome because of the torrential downpours that are supposed to go on all day. 1 to 2 inches of rain predicted. Can anyone advise us on the best way to get to Syracuse? Will the trail be too muddy and, if so, what is the best alternative? Are there sections that have been recently paved that might not be on our map?
Margaret on 06/20/2019 03:16 PM
Hi We just biked from Macedon Lock 30 to Seneca Falls area Had planned to camp at Cayuga zLake but booked hotel 4 night after riding all day in rain Trail was actually not bad at all not that muddy though wet of course Grester challenge was the on road sections w cars flying by
Margaret on 06/20/2019 03:19 PM
Oh and trail nesr spencerport is under construction Take sweden walker road
Macedon Lock 30 campground
- + Wondering if anyone has ever camped at the Macedon campground? How much space is there? Is there any showers?
Thanks,
Margaret
Discussion started 06/01/2019 09:39 PM by Margaret - 1 reply (last reply by jrstewart3 at 06/18/2019 07:47 PM)Margaret from Amherst, OH on 06/01/2019 09:39 PM
Wondering if anyone has ever camped at the Macedon campground? How much space is there? Is there any showers?
Thanks,
Margaret
jrstewart3 from Rochester on 06/18/2019 07:47 PM
You can camp in Palmyra, and there are showers.
Parking on buffalo
- + Does anyone hav suggestions for leaving my vehicle
In Buffalo for 7 to 10 days while I ride to Albany
End of july?
Discussion started 06/12/2019 01:50 PM by Obx vincent - 2 replies (last reply by Rm at 06/18/2019 11:55 AM)Obx vincent from Outerbanks NC on 06/12/2019 01:50 PM
Does anyone hav suggestions for leaving my vehicle
In Buffalo for 7 to 10 days while I ride to Albany
End of july?
Jim on 06/15/2019 06:38 AM
There is a Marriott downtown near the start of the trail. We parked one night there, they charge for it but I don’t recall how much.
Rm from Ct on 06/18/2019 11:55 AM
Left my car in a pay garage for 7 days in Albany..cost $35.
Biking conditions of path from Buffalo to Albany
- + Hi All. Would love to bike from Buffalo to Albany in late July. My 3 main questions is: 1 Can I use a road bike on the entire trail without a problem. 2. How well marked is the trail especially throug...
Discussion started 06/08/2019 04:16 PM by Jerry L - 0 repliesJerry L from Gaithersburg Maryland on 06/08/2019 04:16 PM
Hi All. Would love to bike from Buffalo to Albany in late July. My 3 main questions is: 1 Can I use a road bike on the entire trail without a problem. 2. How well marked is the trail especially through cities like Syracuse and Albany/Schenectady. 3. Do I have to reserve a hotel room in advance or can I just show up and get a room. My wife will be following in a car and will catch up to me at the end of my daily ride. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Econo Lodge in Brockport
- + This is a very small hotel, but our accommodations were just fine. Plenty of room for bikes in room, just make sure to request a 1st floor room as they do not have an elevator and the stairs were diff...
Discussion started 06/05/2019 09:15 PM by SarahVW - 0 repliesSarahVW from Black Mtn, NC on 06/05/2019 09:15 PM
This is a very small hotel, but our accommodations were just fine. Plenty of room for bikes in room, just make sure to request a 1st floor room as they do not have an elevator and the stairs were difficult for a bike with gear. Clean and friendly.
Holley
- + Stop at the park! There is a neat waterfall, plenty of picnic areas, and a playground.
Discussion started 06/05/2019 09:13 PM by SarahVW - 0 repliesSarahVW from Black Mtn, NC on 06/05/2019 09:13 PM
Stop at the park! There is a neat waterfall, plenty of picnic areas, and a playground.
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Holley
https://bikeeriecanal.com/talk.aspx?tid=88&tonly=1
Medina
- + We've gone from Buffalo to Rochester so far with little issue. Yes the conditions from Medina to brockport were not ideal, but doable. Any detours for closed portions have been well marked and safe (w...
Discussion started 06/05/2019 09:11 PM by SarahVW - 0 repliesSarahVW from Black Mtn, NC on 06/05/2019 09:11 PM
We've gone from Buffalo to Rochester so far with little issue. Yes the conditions from Medina to brockport were not ideal, but doable. Any detours for closed portions have been well marked and safe (we are riding with a 3 year old and a puppy so we are super careful and have felt fine)
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Medina
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Middleport
- + On the suggestion of a large group of cyclists, we had lunch at Pony's Irish Pub. It is across the street from Portside Cafe. This is a local favorite. We enjoyed our beer, wings, and hamburgers. Grea...
Discussion started 06/05/2019 09:06 PM by SarahVW - 0 repliesSarahVW from Black Mtn, NC on 06/05/2019 09:06 PM
On the suggestion of a large group of cyclists, we had lunch at Pony's Irish Pub. It is across the street from Portside Cafe. This is a local favorite. We enjoyed our beer, wings, and hamburgers. Great bar food and a nice stop!
Quality Inn Lockport in Lockport
- + This was a clean, quiet place to stay in Lockport. Not far from the trail and allows pets as well. No pool, but a free breakfast. We met many cyclists here. Would recommend as a place to stay.
Discussion started 06/05/2019 09:03 PM by SarahVW - 0 repliesSarahVW from Black Mtn, NC on 06/05/2019 09:03 PM
This was a clean, quiet place to stay in Lockport. Not far from the trail and allows pets as well. No pool, but a free breakfast. We met many cyclists here. Would recommend as a place to stay.
Pendleton
- + Go to Uncle Gs. You won't be disappointed! They now have food as well as ice cream.
Discussion started 06/05/2019 09:00 PM by SarahVW - 0 repliesSarahVW from Black Mtn, NC on 06/05/2019 09:00 PM
Go to Uncle Gs. You won't be disappointed! They now have food as well as ice cream.
Uncle G's Ice Cream in Pendleton
- + This place is awesome! Plenty of vegan flavors too. They are right on the trail and have food and lots of excellent ice cream. Also gave a pup cup with vanilla ice cream to or dog.
Discussion started 06/05/2019 08:59 PM by SarahVW - 0 repliesSarahVW from Black Mtn, NC on 06/05/2019 08:59 PM
This place is awesome! Plenty of vegan flavors too. They are right on the trail and have food and lots of excellent ice cream. Also gave a pup cup with vanilla ice cream to or dog.
Condition of trail from Rochester to Brockport
- + Does anyone know the current condition of the trail between Rochester and Brockport? I heard that a section near Brockport might be closed. We're planning a trip this weekend. Thanks.
Discussion started 06/05/2019 08:32 PM by Sue - 0 repliesSue from Rochester on 06/05/2019 08:32 PM
Does anyone know the current condition of the trail between Rochester and Brockport? I heard that a section near Brockport might be closed. We're planning a trip this weekend. Thanks.
Medina
- + Fitzgibbons Celtic pub is a must see place to enjoy a beverage and or meal.
Discussion started 06/02/2019 07:00 PM - 0 repliesAnonymous from Medina on 06/02/2019 07:00 PM
Fitzgibbons Celtic pub is a must see place to enjoy a beverage and or meal.
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Medina
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Hejamada Campground in Port Byron
- + anyone ever stay here
Discussion started 06/01/2019 08:39 PM by robert levac - 0 repliesrobert levac from windsor on 06/01/2019 08:39 PM
anyone ever stay here
Syracuse to albany
- + Any tips re: starting trip at syracuse? Need to leave truck until return. Any hoteks let u park while u ride if you stay a night? Hotel duggestions for night befire we ride? Avoid any section of d...
Discussion started 05/25/2019 09:14 AM by Nancy - 0 repliesNancy from Port jefferson on 05/25/2019 09:14 AM
Any tips re: starting trip at syracuse? Need to leave truck until return. Any hoteks let u park while u ride if you stay a night? Hotel duggestions for night befire we ride? Avoid any section of downtown syracuse or no? Ty!
week long parking Buffalo
- + We are looking for a reasonable prices parking option for our car while we are biking... we have transportation to Albany and plan to leave our car in Buffalo for the 8 days we will be gone...
Any su...
Discussion started 05/04/2019 08:43 AM by Mary - 1 reply (last reply by jim at 05/20/2019 09:15 AM)Mary from Rock Island Illinois on 05/04/2019 08:43 AM
We are looking for a reasonable prices parking option for our car while we are biking... we have transportation to Albany and plan to leave our car in Buffalo for the 8 days we will be gone...
Any suggestions
jim from central NJ on 05/20/2019 09:15 AM
If you come up with a good solution here, would you mind posting? We are also looking for extended parking in Buffalo. thanks!
Rochester area: Trail closed near Route-390 thru Labor Day
- + "The Erie Canalway Trail will be closed to walkers, cyclists and others near Route-390 in Gates from Monday through at least Labor Day.
"The popular trail will be blocked off between Route-390 on the...
Discussion started 04/22/2019 11:06 AM by Ray (webmaster) - 2 replies (last reply by jrstewart3 at 05/10/2019 08:44 AM)Ray (webmaster) on 04/22/2019 11:06 AM
"The Erie Canalway Trail will be closed to walkers, cyclists and others near Route-390 in Gates from Monday through at least Labor Day.
"The popular trail will be blocked off between Route-390 on the west and a point to the east of Lee Road, according to a barely legible map disseminated on Twitter Saturday by the state Canal Corporation.
"Users apparently will be directed onto Trolley Boulevard to detour around the closure, which the Canal Corporation said is necessitated by work on Route-390 highway bridges."
...
(at least there is a detour - see web address below for full article... and that "barley legible" map)
Source: Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, 04/20/2019
Full article:
https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2019/04/20/erie-canal-trail-closing-gates-bridge-construction/3529464002/
Bop from Rochester on 04/22/2019 08:20 PM
I've detour to Trolley Boulevard a few times there. Shouldn't be a big problem. Their stopping people from going underneath the 390 bridge. There's a paved path right before the east side of the bridge that exit's to Trolley. As I remember it.
jrstewart3 from Rochester on 05/10/2019 08:44 AM
The detour is easy, and pretty safe. There is a traffic light at the one street crossing.
Car Rental
- + I'm planning on riding Buffalo to Albany in late June. I can leave my car in Albany and drive a rental to Buffalo. It seems cheapest to return the car to Buffalo Airport. Is it reasonable to think ...
Discussion started 05/08/2019 08:42 AM by Mike - 0 repliesMike from Guilford Connecticut on 05/08/2019 08:42 AM
I'm planning on riding Buffalo to Albany in late June. I can leave my car in Albany and drive a rental to Buffalo. It seems cheapest to return the car to Buffalo Airport. Is it reasonable to think I could ride to the start of the trail from the airport? I'm not averse to riding on the road and in the city.
Amtrak Station in Albany
- + Is it easy to take a bike on the train from Albany to Buffalo? Thanks.
Discussion started 03/01/2019 08:27 PM by Henry - 4 replies (last reply by Steven Gaub at 04/28/2019 08:59 PM)Henry from Latham on 03/01/2019 08:27 PM
Is it easy to take a bike on the train from Albany to Buffalo? Thanks.
Judy M from Orange County, NY on 03/31/2019 09:13 AM
We were looking for transportation between Syracuse and Buffalo on the train. I contacted Amtrak and was told that you can not bring a standard bike on the train. If you have a foldable bike you can. It’s a shame they don’t.
Anonymous on 04/19/2019 06:25 PM
This is news to me since I have reservation for bike on the train from Rochester to Schenectady. The Amtrak site does say they cannot accommodate bikes at the Albany station, but other than that it looks like you can.
TS from St. Louis on 04/22/2019 10:03 PM
Amtrak only allows bikes on the 49 Lake Shore Limited; bikes are barred from all other trains that run between Albany and Buffalo. Usually the Lake Shore Limited departs westbound from Albany daily at around 7:30 p.m. and arrives in Buffalo (DePew station) at around midnight.
For reference, it stretches all the way from NYC to Chicago.
Steven Gaub from LAKEWOOD on 04/28/2019 08:59 PM
The information on Amtrak west from Albany was very interesting. Will the bicycle be in the baggage car or are their bicycle racks in the coach cars? Is the schedule only weekday or is it 7 days a week? Do you have to have bicycle reservations?
Thank you for all your help.
Ohio to Erie canal and Erie Canal as joint trip
- + I am considering these trails in the fall. I am not sure I, have the time and want to travel on a bicycle the approximate 150 miles from public transit Clevlan Ohio to public transit Buffalo any sugge...
Discussion started 04/13/2019 12:44 PM by Steven Gaub - 2 replies (last reply by Steven Gaub at 04/28/2019 04:18 PM)Steven Gaub from LAKEWOOD on 04/13/2019 12:44 PM
I am considering these trails in the fall. I am not sure I, have the time and want to travel on a bicycle the approximate 150 miles from public transit Clevlan Ohio to public transit Buffalo any suggestions? The only other option; as an out of state traveler who will have to fly into the area, I can think of is rebox my bicycle and go Grayhound. The trail transit options do not connect the trails.
Jeff from Troy, NY on 04/26/2019 07:29 PM
Take a look at Amtrak's Lake Shore Limited, it runs between Cleveland and Buffalo and has checked baggage service which you can box up your bike and "check" it. Boxes should be able to be purchased from the station. Supposedly all you have to do is take off your pedals and rotate handlebars. That line also runs through to Albany, so if you only have time to bike the trail in one direction, you could get a return trip from Albany to Cleveland.
See http://bikepacker.com/how-to-travel-with-your-bike/ for more info on the service.
Steven Gaub from LAKEWOOD on 04/28/2019 04:18 PM
Thank you all for your suggestions.
What's the normal speed limit on the on road portions of the trail?
- + Living near the east end of the trail, yesterday I was biking a portion of it and was shocked when I saw a 55mph speed limit sign on a portion of the on road section of the trail a little west of Sche...
Discussion started 04/26/2019 07:40 PM by Jeff - 0 repliesJeff from Troy, NY on 04/26/2019 07:40 PM
Living near the east end of the trail, yesterday I was biking a portion of it and was shocked when I saw a 55mph speed limit sign on a portion of the on road section of the trail a little west of Schenectady. This is a high traffic State Route 5
How common is this on the on-road portions of the trail? I honestly can't believe that Parks & Trails New York actually thinks it's safe to make this the official route.
Erie Canal trail gaps
- + Greetings, folks,
Apologies if this question has been asked, but...I have had a surprisingly difficult (for me, at least) time trying to get a comprehensive, up-to-date list of current gaps, with thei...
Discussion started 03/04/2019 07:51 AM by CS - 3 replies (last reply by Jeff at 04/26/2019 05:30 PM)CS from Washington, DC on 03/04/2019 07:51 AM
Greetings, folks,
Apologies if this question has been asked, but...I have had a surprisingly difficult (for me, at least) time trying to get a comprehensive, up-to-date list of current gaps, with their distances, in the Erie Canal trail, end-to-end. (Main trail only). If anyone has this info or could point me toward it, I would be grateful. I have tried numerous on-line sources, but typically find them not up-to-date. Thanks in advance for any help or consideration.
Regards,
CS
Joseph Pafundi from Saratoga Springs on 03/07/2019 10:21 AM
Dear DS from DC,
The gaps I have encountered are Clyde to Newark (on road). Clyde down to Port Byron (on road),. Camillus to Dewitt (street paths across Syracuse). Some on road in Rome, NY.There is a small section now from Rotterdam Junction to Pattersonville. This section is very busy with commercial traffic.
Safe and happy travels! The Erie Canal Trail is a wonderful experience!
John W. from Pittsburgh on 04/20/2019 02:01 PM
Try the Parks and Trails New York (PTNY) interactive map:
https://www.ptny.org/bike-canal/map/
I believe the gray colored lines are the gaps where you will ride on lightly trafficked country roads.
This map roughly follows the yearly “Cycle the Erie Canal” event route.
Happy Riding,
John
Jeff from Troy on 04/26/2019 05:30 PM
I just rode one of those grey sections west of Schenectady yesterday. That isn’t a lightly traveled country road, it’s a high traffic state route 5 death trap with speed limits up to 55mph and little to no rideable shoulder in some sections.
This has me seriously questioning if it’s smart to bike from Buffalo to Albany later this season as I was planning to do.
electric bikes
- + what is the policy? any difference for pedal assist versus throttle?
Discussion started 04/23/2019 11:11 AM by poppy47 - 1 reply (last reply by Bop at 04/23/2019 02:45 PM)poppy47 on 04/23/2019 11:11 AM
what is the policy? any difference for pedal assist versus throttle?
Bop from Rochester on 04/23/2019 02:45 PM
The signs say no motor vehicles. Yet min-bikes, dirtbikes, 4 wheelers and snowmobiles can be common. Throttle could put you in motorized group.
I'd also say depending on how build up the area is. Blasting through Brockport, Pittsford may be frown upon, yet smaller places might see more of the above types.
Canalway Bike Parking lot in Amsterdam
- + Thank you for providing this informational resource on Erie Canal biking.
I have a question, which is whether the Canalway Bike Parking lot in Amsterdam is a legal and suitable/safe area to park my...
Discussion started 04/14/2019 10:16 AM by K. Martin - 0 repliesK. Martin from Old Saybrook, CT on 04/14/2019 10:16 AM
Thank you for providing this informational resource on Erie Canal biking.
I have a question, which is whether the Canalway Bike Parking lot in Amsterdam is a legal and suitable/safe area to park my vehicle for approximately 3-4 days of touring on the canal.
Thank you, -K.M.
electric outlets at camp sites
- + Do any of the free camping areas have electric outlets available for charging? I'm planning on riding form the Buffalo airport back to my car at the Albany airport in May, never rode the canal before,...
Discussion started 04/01/2019 07:09 PM by Jason - 1 reply (last reply by Jason Miller at 04/10/2019 11:46 AM)Jason from clifton on 04/01/2019 07:09 PM
Do any of the free camping areas have electric outlets available for charging? I'm planning on riding form the Buffalo airport back to my car at the Albany airport in May, never rode the canal before, so I'm not sure what to expect.
Jason Miller from Clifton on 04/10/2019 11:46 AM
Anyone got an answer?
Weather second week of May
- + My husband and I are planning on doing the ride Buffalo to Albany the second week in May. I lived in Utica for 5 years so I know the area fairly well but not the entire trail. Is it a muddy mess? My ...
Discussion started 03/25/2019 06:46 PM by Mary - 1 reply (last reply by Joseph Pafundi at 03/26/2019 08:08 AM)Mary from Melbourne Beach on 03/25/2019 06:46 PM
My husband and I are planning on doing the ride Buffalo to Albany the second week in May. I lived in Utica for 5 years so I know the area fairly well but not the entire trail. Is it a muddy mess? My husband's brother is trying to talk us out of it.
Joseph Pafundi from Saratoga Springs on 03/26/2019 08:08 AM
Mary, good morning!
I have not completed the entire trail so, I cannot comment fully. However, I can say that Albany to Mindenville is mostly paved. Mindenville to Little Falls still mostly packed earth. Last fall I went from Utica to Rome. The section from Oriskany to Rome was pretty uneven due to the trail conditions. Canastota to Dewitt is now almost completely paved.Palmyra to Medina is mostly crushed, hard limestone. For me the best section of the route!
Safe travels!
Start of the canal trail in Buffalo
- + Ray, where does the canal trail actually start/end in Buffalo? I was at the anchor where the submarine ad ship were docked but saw no mention of the trail. It's starting/is cold on the trail as of thi...
Discussion started 10/24/2018 07:12 AM by Trek 620 - 4 replies (last reply by John Aulbach at 03/18/2019 02:20 PM)Trek 620 from San Diego on 10/24/2018 07:12 AM
Ray, where does the canal trail actually start/end in Buffalo? I was at the anchor where the submarine ad ship were docked but saw no mention of the trail. It's starting/is cold on the trail as of this date with heavy frost along the trail in the mornings. Thanks
ctbiker from Norwich,CT on 10/24/2018 09:26 AM
I see Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erie_Canal#Route) mentions various starting points but I personally don't have an answer. I cycled the western half a couple years ago and finished the eastern half yesterday (10/23).
As you mentioned, it's getting nippy throughout the day now.
My two friends and I were often confused by a lack of signage and disliked the broken route which dumps one out onto heavy, fast-traffic roads. We found riding the canal trail next to I-90 disquieting.
I especially liked the General Nicolas Herkimer estate area.
Enjoy!
Ray
trek620 from san diego on 10/27/2018 08:55 AM
As far as directions go I found it useful to use the road markings put down by the New York Parks Department which are used on their ride from Buffalo to Albany in July (I believe). They consist of painted circles with a direction tab on turns, etc. I just used them backwards and it helped. The route I took last week was from Albany to Buffalo. I think prevailing winds are from west to east. Fought a stiff one most of the way. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger!
John W. from Pittsburgh, PA on 12/25/2018 05:04 PM
It starts at Canalside in downtown Buffalo. If you are in Canalside and are on the pedestrian bridge at the Commercial Slip you are at the beginning as you stand over the water. The lat/long is: 42.877337, -78.879350
From there the trail heads north (paved) along the city trails next to Lake Erie/Niagara River out to the Tonawandas where it then becomes gravel.
I will agree the signage could be improved down there for sure!
John
John Aulbach from York, PA on 03/18/2019 02:20 PM
My son and I rode the entire trail 14 years ago. The signage was poor then but the trail was relatively new. We did manage to find the trailhead in Albany very easily but had to wing it a few times. One of the most memorable was somewhere between Medina and Buffalo where we resorted to dead reckoning to find the canal by following a farmers lane beside a cornfield until we came to the intersection of the canal and a road. It made for a great adventure, a wrong turn or two but a great ride.
This website
- + I came across this website from the link from the Katy Trail website why does this website have a different look or format then the Katy and the others you host.
Discussion started 09/13/2018 04:39 PM by Joe G - 4 replies (last reply by Bop at 02/21/2019 03:58 PM)Joe G from Wildwood Mo on 09/13/2018 04:39 PM
I came across this website from the link from the Katy Trail website why does this website have a different look or format then the Katy and the others you host.
Ray (webmaster) on 09/13/2018 08:47 PM
Thanks for visiting the site, Joe.
I built the Katy Trail site 15 years ago, and used that framework to build other websites for the C&O Canal/GAP in MD/PA, Cowboy Trail in Nebraska, Silver Comet in GA, and Mickelson in SD.
When it came time to create a website for the Erie Canal, I decided to build a new site from scratch rather than copying the old Katy Trail framework. This new design could take advantage of the latest web technologies like "responsive design" (looking good and working well on any size screen), location awareness, better personalization, more extensive use of mapping... and just a fresher, more current look.
Having developed this new concept, next I will take these improvements and apply them to the other existing trail websites. So you can look forward to the Katy Trail site (and others) getting a face lift and improved trip planning tools sometime over the next year.
To make this new website framework the best it can be, I appreciate any feedback, ideas, critiques, or suggestions.
Thanks again, and happy trails!
Steven Gaub from LAKEWOOD on 02/19/2019 04:12 PM
The form search tool directs you to the Cowboy Trail. How do you search the Earie Canal form for specific subjects?
Ray S (webmaster) on 02/19/2019 04:23 PM
Sorry about that issue with the search - it is fixed now to search the Erie Canal site.
I built the search feature on the Cowboy Trail site, and forgot to change the code when I copied it over to here.
Thanks for pointing out the problem so I could fix it!
Bop from Rochester on 02/21/2019 03:58 PM
Any idea how messed up the canal path is heading east to spencerport? Was on E canal road today and it looks like a mess. Same heading west to Holley?
Biking season is upcoming and I like to ride to hulberton and back.
Amtrak Station in Buffalo
- + Are unboxed bicycles allowed on Empire service?
Discussion started 02/19/2019 04:08 PM by Steven Gaub - 0 repliesSteven Gaub from LAKEWOOD on 02/19/2019 04:08 PM
Are unboxed bicycles allowed on Empire service?