1. Celebrate the Champlain Canal Bicentennial.
Two years prior to the opening of the Erie Canal, the Champlain Canal was fully operational from Troy to Lake Champlain in 1823. Explore the Champlain Canal Region at a bicentennial event.

2. Get on the water.
Step onboard a tour boat, paddle the canals, or cruise in your own boat.  Beautiful scenery, lively canal waterfronts, and distinctive New York flavor await around every bend.

3. Take the Canalway Challenge.
Set your personal mileage goal, then walk, run, cycle or paddle to achieve it. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just getting off the couch, the Challenge is free and open to all. Teams and organizations are welcome, too.

4. Head to the canal for festivals and events.
Choose from large canal festivals to bike tours to arts and cultural offerings. Or sign up for free On the Canals activities all season long. 

5. Experience canal heritage.
Visit canal communities, historic sites, and museums for great local food and culture.

PICK UP THE 2023 ERIE CANALWAY MAP & GUIDE 

Packed with information and tips for visiting, the Erie Canalway Map & Guide is available at visitor centers and canal museums all along the canals. You can also download it here > 

This publication is made possible thanks to funding support from the NYS Canal Corporation and our Tourism Sponsors: Central New York Community Foundation, National Grid, C&S Foundation, BoatU.S., Stewart’s Shops, Wegmans, and Spruce Creek Campground (Dolgeville).

GRANTS TO SUPPORT CANAL TOURISM 

Forty-two not-for-profit organizations and municipalities will receive NYS Canal System Tourism Infrastructure and Event Grants totaling $190,000 in 2023, thanks to a joint grant program of the NYS Canal Corporation and the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. The grants will support seven tourism infrastructure and amenity improvements and 35 events along canal waterways and the Canalway Trail. 

THANK A WATER TRAIL STEWARD

Now in its third year, the NYS Canalway Water Trail Stewardship Program boasts 64 volunteer stewards who have adopted 270 miles of waterway. Stewards care for launch sites and act as friendly ambassadors along the waterway. Look for them wearing their signature blue shirts and be sure to say hello and thanks if you see them on the canal. 

CANAL COMMUNITIES BENEFIT FROM NY FORWARD 

The NY Forward program selected the villages of Dolgeville, Phoenix, Medina, and Montour Falls as Round One Communities to receive funding and technical support. The program aims to invigorate and enliven downtowns in New York’s smaller and rural communities, just as the Downtown Reinvestment Initiative has done for larger towns and cities. We look forward to seeing great results!