New York Erie Canal End to End Bike Tour

Discover the beauty, history, and charm of New York State on an unforgettable cycling journey along the legendary Erie Canalway Trail. Beginning in Buffalo and traveling east to Albany, this inn-to-inn bike vacation and adventure follows one of America’s most historic waterways through picturesque canal villages, rolling farmland, scenic river valleys, and beautifully preserved landscapes. Along the way, explore remarkable engineering landmarks, historic locks, charming waterfront communities, and the distinctive architecture that reflects the canal’s extraordinary role in shaping the region and the nation. Predominantly flat terrain and extensive stretches of dedicated cycling paths make for an inviting and rewarding riding experience.

Each day reveals a new side of Upstate New York, from the peaceful agricultural landscapes of Western New York to the charming Finger Lakes region and the dramatic scenery of the Mohawk Valley. Enjoy thoughtfully selected accommodations, welcoming small towns, and opportunities to experience the region’s local culture and cuisine. With luggage transfers and expert support throughout the journey, guests can focus on the pleasures of cycling and discovery. Our adventure concludes in Albany, where a comfortable shuttle returns us to Buffalo, completing a memorable journey across the heart of New York State.

Day 1 Our End to End journey begins in Buffalo, following the scenic Erie Canalway Trail through the historic canal towns of Tonawanda and Lockport, home to the remarkable Flight of Five locks. As we ride east, the landscape transitions from vibrant waterfront communities to the peaceful countryside of Western New York, with picturesque farms, orchards, historic lift bridges, and charming villages lining our route. 

The mostly flat terrain and inviting canal paths provide a relaxed and enjoyable introduction to the region’s rich history and natural beauty. Our day concludes in Medina, a beautifully preserved canal town celebrated for its distinctive sandstone architecture, historic Main Street, and welcoming atmosphere.

Day 2 Departing Medina, we continue east along the Erie Canalway Trail through the picturesque countryside of Western New York, passing farmland, orchards, and historic canal villages. The charming communities of Albion, Holley, Brockport, and Spencerport offer glimpses into the region’s rich canal heritage, with distinctive lift bridges, beautifully preserved architecture, and inviting waterfront settings. 

Getting closer to Rochester, the landscape gradually transitions to a network of scenic greenways and parkland, providing a pleasant passage through the city. Our ride concludes in the village of Pittsford, where the beautifully restored Schoen Place waterfront welcomes us with boutique shops, galleries, and inviting restaurants overlooking the canal.

Day 3 Leaving Pittsford, we continue east along the Erie Canalway Trail, passing through the canal communities of Fairport, Macedon, Palmyra, and Newark. This scenic stretch of the journey showcases the tranquil beauty of New York’s canal country, with peaceful waterways, historic locks, inviting villages, and expansive agricultural landscapes. 

The gently rolling countryside and predominantly level canal paths provide an enjoyable day of cycling, with opportunities to appreciate the region’s remarkable engineering heritage and small-town charm. Our ride concludes in Clyde, where a shuttle transfer takes us south to Seneca Falls, a historic Finger Lakes community renowned for its role in the women’s rights movement and its beautifully preserved downtown.

Day 4 Next, our journey continues east through the scenic countryside of Central New York, where quiet country roads, rolling farmland, and peaceful rural communities offer a different perspective on the Erie Canal corridor. 

Traveling through the historic villages of Port Byron and Jordan, we reconnect with the original canal towpath, passing through the beautifully preserved Camillus Erie Canal Park, home to the restored Nine Mile Creek Aqueduct. The route then leads toward Syracuse, where urban greenways and historic canal corridors guide us eastward. Our day concludes in the village of Fayetteville, nestled among the wooded landscapes of Central New York and offering a welcoming setting to relax after a rewarding day of cycling. 

Day 5 Riding out from Fayetteville, we continue east along the Erie Canal corridor, traveling through the picturesque landscapes and welcoming communities of Central New York. Our route passes through Chittenango and Canastota, where remnants of the original canal and beautifully preserved historic sites offer glimpses into the region’s rich transportation heritage. 

Continuing through Oneida and the scenic Mohawk Valley, we enjoy a delightful combination of peaceful canal paths, pastoral farmland, and charming small towns. The day concludes in Utica, a vibrant city with a rich industrial history, distinctive architecture, and a growing culinary scene, providing a memorable setting for our evening along the Erie Canal.

Day 6 Leaving Utica, we continue east along the Erie Canalway Trail into the scenic Mohawk Valley, where the historic waterway winds through a landscape of rolling hills, farmland, and riverside communities. Our route passes through the historic towns of Herkimer, Little Falls, and Canajoharie, offering glimpses of beautifully preserved canal infrastructure, remarkable stone architecture, and the region’s industrial history. 

In Little Falls, dramatic rock formations and picturesque waterfront views create one of the most memorable settings along the canal. Continuing alongside the Mohawk River, we enjoy peaceful stretches of cycling framed by wooded hillsides and expansive valley views before arriving in Amsterdam, a historic mill town with a revitalized waterfront and a distinctive connection to New York’s canal history.

Day 7 Our final day of cycling takes us east from Amsterdam through the scenic Mohawk Valley, following the Erie Canalway Trail toward New York’s capital city. Along the way, we pass through canal communities, peaceful riverside landscapes, and the picturesque surroundings of Schenectady, where the region’s rich industrial and transportation heritage remains on display. 

Riding toward Albany, the route follows beautiful stretches of dedicated trail along the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, offering expansive water views and a memorable conclusion to our journey across New York State. Upon arrival in Albany, we will celebrate the completion of our Erie Canal adventure before boarding a comfortable shuttle for our return to Buffalo.