Warmer weather is here and it’s the perfect time to get outside. Whether you enjoy biking, running, or just a casual stroll, you’ll find relaxation and beautiful scenery along the Erie Canalway Trail.
Montgomery County’s Erie Canalway Trail offers 40 miles of scenic views and a safe and enjoyable atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to spend a Spring day.
Traveling across the county you’ll encounter picturesque views of the Mohawk River valley, an area rich with working farms, vast forests, and the historic Erie Canal. Getting off the trail you’ll find quaint river towns teeming with shops, restaurants and activities for people of all ages.
In Amsterdam, you can Riverlink Park and the Gateway Overlook Bridge. The park features scenic views of the Mohawk River, a playground for children to enjoy, and historic markers connecting Montgomery County’s past and present.
Further down along the trail, in Canajoharie visitors will find the historic Arkell Museum, which features an inspiring and engaging collection of American Art and Mohawk Valley History. Peddle a little further down river and you’ll enjoy delicious sweet treats, coffee and great food in Fort Plain.
Looking to explore the Empire State Trail from end-to-end? You can register now for the 25th anniversary of the “Cycle the Erie Canal” bike tour, which offers cyclist an 8-day bike tour on the Erie Canalway Trail. The tour will be passing through Montgomery County on July 14th-15th.
Running, walking and biking – Montgomery County’s Erie Canalway Trail is the perfect place to spend time outdoors with family and friends this spring. Plan your next adventure now and be sure to share it on social media.
Don’t forget to follow Montgomery County Tourism on Facebook and Instagram to see more suggestions and don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube page.
Wedged between Adirondack and Catskills parks, the Tentrr Yankee Hill Getaway campsite lies on a thin strip of land in the middle of the old Erie Canal and the modern-day Barge Canal system. This area is teeming with places to bike, hike and explore the region’s rich history. At the eastern end of the site is the Putnam Lock Stand, a historic general store that used to sell dry goods, meat, groceries, liquors and literature to canal travelers. All campsites are on the open lawn with tents facing the Mohawk River/Erie Canal. An included pop-up tent can house additional campers (up to 4). Kick back and soak up the view from your Adirondack chairs. Your group can enjoy the included fire pit, grill, picnic table and benches during your stay. If you’re hungry after a day of adventure, the nearby town of Amsterdam (3 miles) also has several local restaurants and cafes as well as Riverlink Park which hosts outdoor concerts and has a boat dock. For the paddlers in the family, there is a self-service kayak rental kiosk on the campsite run by Upstate Kayak Rentals.
Summer weather has everyone in the mood for outdoor adventures, and what better way to explore the beauty of New York State than pedaling the Empire State Trail! This 750-mile bike trail runs through Montgomery County, as the Erie Canalway Trail. For bike getaways big and small, a stop in Montgomery County offers fascinating history and incredible scenic views to spark your interest for more adventures!
Treat yourself like royalty with a visit to Amsterdam Castle! Whether you need a place to relax after a day of riding, refuel with a delicious meal, or both, this boutique hotel and restaurant is a one-of-a-kind stop. With its close proximity to the Erie Canalway Trail, you can easily take a break from pedaling and get ready for the next leg of your journey!
Connecting the north and south sides of Amsterdam, the Mohawk Valley Gateway Overlook is a unique structure, a pedestrian bridge spanning 500 feet that acts as a park over the Mohawk River. Visitors can learn about the history of the city as they stroll, with markers that tell the story of the city’s neighborhoods. Have your camera ready to take photos of the stunning river views, as well as the Wheel of Life glass mosaic and the Story Mark, a 12-foot wide compass.
New York State is steeped in history, and the Erie Canal has played an important role in shaping our story. Take a step back in time with a visit to Schoharie Crossing, where visitors can witness three of the major phases of the Erie Canal construction, including the remains of the Schoharie Creek Aqueduct. This historic site offers scenic views of the canal and is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch.
As you travel along the bike path, be sure to make a stop in St. Johnsville, home to the Fort Klock Historic Restoration. Built in 1750 by Johannes Klock, this fortified homestead was used during the French and Indian War and Revolutionary War as a safe place for family and neighbors to seek refuge. The site is a designated National Historic Landmark. Visitors can also take in the Dutch Barn, Little Red Schoolhouse, and Blacksmith Shop to get a glimpse of life in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
A visit to Montgomery County wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Arkell Museum! The museum began as the Canajoharie Library, founded by Beech-Nut Packing Company president Bartlett Arkell. Home to an impressive collection of American art, including works by Winslow Homer, Mary Cassatt, Georgia O’Keeffe, Andrew Wyeth, and more, the Arkell Museum is a perfect spot for a quiet stroll through the galleries.
Ready to plan your next bike adventure? Be sure to fill your itinerary with stops in Montgomery County! Pedal your way along the scenic and historic Empire State Trail and discover all of our hidden gems.
Canalway Challenge Kicks Off Along New York’s Canals Walk, run, cycle, roll, or paddle to achieve your mileage goal
Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor invites New Yorkers to take part in the Canalway Challengein 2021 and enjoy the great outdoors along New York’s canals and Canalway Trails. Participants choose a mileage goal of 15, 90, 180, or 360 miles. They then walk, run or cycle on the Canalway Trail or paddle on the NYS Canal System to achieve it. People with disabilities are welcome to participate in a 1st Mile Challenge by completing one mile.
“As New York begins to open more, the Canalway Challenge is a great way for people to get outside and discover all they can do along the canals and Canalway Trail,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Directorof the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. “The range of mileage options is suited to people of all ages and abilities, from those who are just taking their first steps toward fitness to more experienced athletes.”
The Canalway Challenge is free and registration is open to individuals and teams. People can complete their miles in one big trip or many small ones.
The 1st Mile Challenge offers people with disabilities and their family and friends opportunities to recreate together and build more active lifestyles. There are numerous places along the canals and Canalway Trail that are accessible and several that offer adaptive bikes and kayaks.
New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “New York’s Canals and adjoining trails offer unparalleled opportunities for safe, socially-distanced outdoor recreation. The Canalway Challengeshowcases the tremendous investments made in both our canalside communities through Governor Cuomo’s Reimagine the Canals program, and in opening of the 750-mile Empire State Trail – the longest multi-use trail in the nation. As we continue to seek new and engaging ways to get outdoors while remaining safe and responsible, the Canal Corporation is thrilled to support this initiative and to invite all New Yorkers to experience the unmatched history and natural beauty of our magnificent Canalway Trail system.”
New York State Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, “With more New Yorkers looking for ways to safely recreate outside and experience parts of the state they haven’t previously visited, the Canalway Challenge is the perfect opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to explore the state’s canal system and the Erie Canalway Trail.”
The Canalway Challenge is funded with support from the National Park Service, the NYS Canal Corporation, and Market New York through I LOVE NY/New York State Division of Tourism as a part of the State’s Regional Economic Development Council initiative.
Participants should follow all New York State Department of Health guidelines for COVID-19 safety while on the Canalway Trail and while visiting state parks, historic sites, and communities.
ABOUT THE ERIE CANALWAY Nearly 200 years after its construction, the Erie Canal remains an iconic symbol of American ingenuity and determination. The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor preserves our extraordinary canal heritage, promotes the Corridor as a world-class tourism destination, and fosters vibrant communities connected by more than 500 miles of waterway. We achieve our mission in partnership with the National Park Service, New York State agencies, non-profit organizations, local residents, and more than 200 communities across the full expanse of upstate New York. http://www.eriecanalway.org/
#### Photo: The 2021 Canalway Challenge is on! New Yorkers are invited to sign up, choose a mileage goal, and explore the great outdoors along New York’s canals. The program is free and runs through October.
Looking to get out and enjoy the warmer temperatures? There’s so much to explore here in Amsterdam.
Take a walk on the MGVO where the Tulips are in full bloom. The smell of these fresh flowers is amazing and you won’t be disappointed. Listen to the birds chirping and the water flowing below on the Mohawk River while you explore the history of the MVGO and all its beauty.
Feeling Hungry?
Head on over to the Southside to Evolve Eatery for some delicious food prepared from locally sourced produce and the freshest ingredients.
After you refuel, enjoy a scenic walk or bring your Bike on the Erie Canalway Trail just steps from Evolve Eatery.
So many places to explore locally in our County and we would love to hear, what is your favorite?
Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor invites New Yorkers to take part in the Canalway Challenge this fall, tracing history and tracking miles along New York’s canals and Canalway Trail. Part fitness challenge, part journey of discovery, the Canalway Challenge is free and registration is open to people of all ages and abilities. Participants set their own mileage goal and walk, run, cycle or paddle to achieve it.
Nearly 1,000 individuals, teams, and organizations have signed up for the Canalway Challenge in 2020, pledging to walk, run, cycle, and paddle 126,000 miles to date. New this fall, participants are encouraged to take up a quest to discover great food and beverages, historic sites, parks, and communities and discover what’s Hot on the Trail while completing the Canalway Challenge.
“Hot on the Trail adds a new element of discovery to the Canalway Challenge, while also supporting small businesses and attractions that have suffered from reduced visitation during the coronavirus pandemic,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.“It’s a win-win for both visitors and for small businesses and attractions that have reopened with safety protocols in place.”
From now through the end of October, Hot on the Trail participants are encouraged to visit sites in nine categories–including food and beverage, museums and historic sites, nature preserves, state and national parks, canal structures, and communities. Participants who list their favorites sites in each category by the end of October will be entered to win a $50 gift card to the New York State Canal Store.
“The Canalway Challenge is another of countless opportunities – both on and off the water – for recreation and fun along New York State’s historic canalway, and I join the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor in encouraging all New Yorkers to enjoy all that we have to offer,” said Brian U. Stratton, Director of the New York State Canal Corporation. “Governor Andrew Cuomo is committed to supporting the heritage and future of New York’s historic canal system, with initiatives that feature local activities that combine some of the best of New York State’s historical sights and natural resources with recreational activities that help to support local businesses during this exceptionally difficult time.”
ABOUT THE ERIE CANALWAY Nearly 200 years after its construction, the Erie Canal remains an iconic symbol of American ingenuity and determination. The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor works to preserve the Nation’s extraordinary canal heritage, promote the Corridor as a world-class tourism destination, and foster vibrant communities connected by more than 500 miles of waterway. It achieves its mission in partnership with the National Park Service, New York State agencies, non-profit organizations, local residents, and more than 200 communities across the full expanse of upstate New York. www.eriecanalway.org (opens in a new tab)
Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor invites New Yorkers to take part in the Canalway Challenge in 2020, tracing history and tracking miles along New York’s canals and Canalway Trail. Part fitness challenge, part journey of discovery, the Canalway Challenge is free and registration is open to people of all ages and abilities.
“Staying healthy is a #1 priority for everyone right now. The Canalway Challenge is a great way for people to get outside and invest in mental and physical health, while exploring the canals in their local area,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
Participants register online and choose a mileage goal of 15, 90, 180, or 360 miles; then walk, run or cycle on the Canalway Trail or paddle safe sections of the NYS Canal System to achieve it. The Canalway Challenge can be done in one big trip or many small ones.
This year’s Challenge runs through the end of October, so people have plenty of time to complete it.
New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “Set alongside our state’s iconic canals, the Canalway Challenge offers participants an opportunity to enjoy the bucolic landscapes of Upstate New York, exercising their minds and bodies, while also practicing safe social distancing.”
Families are encouraged to use the Canalway Challenge to supplement home-based learning about New York State history. Educational worksheets and learning resources are available from the National Heritage Corridor to complement what children will see while on the trail.
Participants in last year’s Canalway Challenge logged 285,000 miles, the equivalent of circling the Earth 11 times.
Participants should follow all New York State Department of Health guidelines for social distancing, wearing a mask and proper hygiene while on the Canalway Trail and while visiting state parks, historic sites, and communities along the way. Updates are posted https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/new-york-state-pause.
ABOUT THE ERIE CANALWAY Nearly 200 years after its construction, the Erie Canal remains an iconic symbol of American ingenuity and determination. The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor preserves our extraordinary canal heritage, promotes the Corridor as a world-class tourism destination, and fosters vibrant communities connected by more than 500 miles of waterway. We achieve our mission in partnership with the National Park Service, New York State agencies, non-profit organizations, local residents, and more than 200 communities across the full expanse of upstate New York. http://www.eriecanalway.org/
While you are limited to outdoor activities, we thought we would share something exciting that you can take part in with proper social distancing.
Did you know we have a NEW “TravelStorys App” that provides free GPS guided tours that share the stories of Montgomery County??
Take a walk, ride a bike, drive in the car, or listen from home. You can practice social distancing AND get a history lesson of the county.
The Montgomery County Tourism department of the Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with economic development and the Department of History and Archives, launched the TravelStorys audio tour in the Fall that allows listeners to hear the historic stories of Montgomery County while traveling the Erie Canalway Trail throughout the county.
The Cycling the Erie Canal: A Path Through History audio tour is available through the free TravelStorys app (available for download on smartphones). TravelStorys brings the little-known stories about the land to life, and by using GPS technology, stories on the tours automatically play as listeners pass through each site.
The Montgomery County TravelStorys Audio Tour invites visitors to interact with the region in a deeper way, and to experience the Erie Canalway Trail in a new way. To download TravelStorys and take the tour, visit Google Play or the Apple Store.
And if you do venture out that way and are looking to support the local restaurants with takeout, checkout our pinned post on this page for a full listing of restaurants.
The Cycling the Erie Canal: A Path Through History audio tour is available through the free TravelStorys app (available for download on smartphones). TravelStorys brings the little-known stories about the land to life, and by using GPS technology, stories on the tours automatically play as listeners pass through each site.
While the Cycling the Erie Canal stories are timed for cyclists, pedestrians utilizing the trail can enjoy the stories as well. Once the app is downloaded, each story will automatically play after entering the story’s radius. Each story is told in a manner that traveling the trail from east to west or west to east will not affect the storytelling experience.
The Montgomery County TravelStorys Audio Tour invites visitors to interact with the region in a deeper way, and to experience the Erie Canalway Trail in a new way. To download TravelStorys and take the tour, visit Google Play (opens in a new tab) or the Apple Store (opens in a new tab) .
WATERFORD, NY- As the NYS Canal System gets set to open on May 19, Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor has released nine new itineraries to lead people to great places and experiences along the Erie and Champlain Canals. The itineraries showcase some of the best historic sites, national and state parks, museums, and recreational experiences and are suited for weekend and day trips. Suggestions for cycling, hiking, paddling, and canal tours, as well as nearby places to eat or picnic are also included.
“As we celebrate the bicentennial of Erie Canal construction in 1817, we hope these itineraries will entice people to enjoy the canal today and learn about its lasting impact on New York State and the Nation,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
Strong collaboration among national, state, and local partners made this project possible. Erie Canalway itineraries were funded with support from the National Park Service and Empire State Development’s Market NY program, part of the State’s Regional Economic Development Council awards. Each one features a national or state park along with nearby historic sites and canal recreation experiences.
Gavin Landry, Executive Director of Tourism for Empire State Development said, “We are proud to support the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor as we celebrate and promote the bicentennial of the Erie Canal this summer. These new itineraries will introduce travelers to some of Upstate New York’s best destinations, which will further bolster statewide tourism and the economic boost visitors bring to local businesses.”
“Whether it’s your first time on the Erie Canal or you’ve spent a lifetime enjoying this iconic waterway, these itineraries have something for everyone,” saidNew York State Canal Corporation Director Brian Stratton. “They are a great way to discover the rich history of the region and learn more about how the Erie Canal transformed the nation.”
Erie Canalway Itineraries INCLUDE:
Western New York
Go Where the Buffalonians Roam (Buffalo)
Experience the Power of Water (Niagara Falls and Lockport)
Follow America’s Destiny (Stillwater to Schuylerville)
The NYS Canal System is a NationalHistoric Landmark (opens in a new tab) that includes the Erie, Champlain, Oswego and Cayuga-Seneca Canals. Spanning more than 500 miles, the waterway links the Hudson River with the Great Lakes, the Finger Lakes, and Lake Champlain. The canals form the backbone of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and connect hundreds of unique and historic communities. The 365-mile Erie Canalway Trail (opens in a new tab) is a multi-use trail from Albany to Buffalo, much of it along the canal’s former towpath. Together the canals and trail create a world-class recreationway that is a vibrant, scenic and unique New York resource.
ABOUT THE ERIE CANALWAY The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor preserves our extraordinary canal heritage, promotes the Corridor as a world-class tourism destination, and fosters vibrant communities connected by more than 500 miles of waterway. It achieves its mission in partnership with the National Park Service, New York State agencies, non-profit organizations, local residents, and more than 200 communities across the full expanse of upstate New York. www.eriecanalway.org (opens in a new tab)
