New York: The Historic Erie Canal

“… 15 miles on The Erie Canal”

The Erie Canal ceremoniously opened in 1825, and at that time was considered one of the greatest engineering feats of the era. The canal was important in that it connected the Atlantic Ocean with the Great Lakes. Even though we have developed better methods for transporting goods and people, the canal (albeit with many modifications) is still used for some commercial and leisure transport. While the glory years of the canal have passed, it is easy to relive its rich history.

One nineteenth century old-timer reminiscing about his early days traveling the Erie Canal noted, “They ain’t no races like they was in the old passenger packet days ‘ boats would skim from Albany to Buffalo in less than six days. That was goin’ it some, eh?” While that was “goin’ it some” back in the 19th century, our trip will cover a good portion of the canal at a very leisurely pace, and for good reasons.

This is one of our easiest & flattest rides. Highlights include historic canal villages, wonderful educational attractions, including Genesee Country Museum, a flat terrain, moderate daily distances, with much of the riding on canal paths separate from road traffic. We hope you will join us!

Daily Itinerary

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Day 1. Transfer from Rochester Int’l Airport to the historic town of Clarence, NY. Bike fitting, short warm-up ride along the old “Peanut Line,” followed by a wine social and dinner.

Lodging: Asa Ransom House. (6-10 miles)

Day 2. Ride from historic Lockport following the old Erie Canal. Today’s ride will take us through several noted canal towns, including Medina, Albion, and Holley, New York. The town of Albion boasts the highest concentration of cobblestone houses in the U.S. Arrive in time to peruse the shops of historic Brockport, a town that is nearly 200 years old. The route is essentially flat.

Lodging: The White Farm or Adams Basin Inn. (34 or 43 miles)

Day 3. Ride to Genesee Country Museum. Enjoy this living village which has been recreated in keeping with life in the 1800’s. Enjoy working displays of various arts and crafts, including barrel making, iron working, quilting, candle making and much more.

Lodging: The White Farm or Adams Basin Inn. (23, 34 or 48 miles)

Day 4. Today we will follow one of the nicest stretches of the Erie Canal, stopping along the way in Adams Basin and Spencerport, two pleasant canal towns that owe their existence to the commerce created by the Erie Canal. Afternoon boat ride on the canal. (optional)

Lodging: four-star Renaissance Del Monte Lodge & Spa. (28 or 36 miles)

Day 5. Ride to Palmyra, NY, home to the Joseph Smith Farm along canal path and then loop back to your hotel. Sumptuous farewell dinner.

Lodging: Renaissance Del Monte Lodge & Spa. (16, 36, or 44 miles)

Day 6. Morning transfer to Rochester Int’l Airport.