Erie Canal
Photo: Unknown authorUnknown author, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
The world-famous Erie Canal, in New York State, lets you experience history, recreation, and the very best that small-town America has to offer. Stretching almost 350 miles (540 km) from Buffalo to Albany, up and down 35 locks, under countless bridges, and through dozens of picturesque communities, the Canal was America's first superhighway and the crown jewel of the Empire State.
Whether you choose to take a serene cruise through the locks and under the bridges, pedal your way along the canal's towpath, or just enjoy a leisurely stroll, you'll be traveling in the figurative footsteps of America's earliest pioneers, immigrants, and entrepreneurs. The canal links attractions both modern and historic, so there's something new around every bend.
UnderstandIn the colonial era, there was one big obstacle that kept American civilization from expanding westward from the coast: the Appalachian Mountains.
PrepareWhether you're walking, biking, or boating, you'll want to plan your route ahead of time. Sure, you could just pick a starting point and go, but you risk running out of energy (or gas) far from civilization.
Get inGetting to the Erie Canal is not difficult. Some 80% of the upstate New York population lives within 25 miles of the canal.
Go- Fifteen Years on the Erie Canal, 1905 song
Stay safeThis should go without saying, but always wear a life jacket while you are boating on the canal. It may only be 12 feet deep, but that's more than enough depth to drown in.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Erie Canal" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Unknown authorUnknown author, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons