Cycle the Erie Canal Bike Tour Register Now

Join us for Cycle the Erie Canal -- July 9-16, 2023

Parks & Trails New York's 25th Annual Bike Tour

Every summer, cyclists leave their cars behind in Buffalo to pedal along the historic Erie Canalway Trail to Albany for Parks & Trails New York’s annual Cycle the Erie Canal bike tour.

The 400-mile journey along the legendary Erie Canal ends in Albany eight days later. Along the way, cyclists enjoy some of the finest scenery, most interesting history, and unparalleled cycling in the United States.

Covering between 40 and 60 miles per day, cyclists travel along the Erie Canalway Trail, which is now more than 85 percent complete and the east-west axis of the statewide 750-mile Empire State Trail.

Prices and tour options

Images From Past Tours

Daily Schedule

What a ride! I have never visited New York and I have never been on a supported bike ride. PTNY has built a reputation of 1st class support that is impossible to beat. In the 400 miles and 8 days of this ride, countless volunteers provided OUTSTANDING support to the riders, and I gained many new friendships. I also learned some important history and understanding. Thank you PTNY. If you have a dream of seeing real America, do it on a bicycle and cherish the experience! PTNY will help you do it.

--2021 Cycle the Erie Canal rider

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Stay connected during and after the tour by joining the official Cycle the Erie Canal Facebook Group

Cycle the Erie Canal Bike Tour Interest Form

The Route

Riders cover about 50 miles a day on mostly flat terrain. About 85% of the ride is on the off-road Canalway Trail, with the remainder on public roadways with good shoulders. Most days, the route follows the canal along level ground, although there are some rolling hills and two long, gradual climbs in the Mohawk Valley.

The Terrain

The route follows the legendary Erie Canal passing locks and aqueducts and winding through historic villages and rural farmlands. Learn more about each day's route with our interactive maps.

Learn how you can get a discount on your registration

Become a member

Parks & Trails New York is the leading statewide not-for-profit organization working to expand, protect, and promote parks and trails in New York State including the Erie Canalway Trail. Become a member and receive exclusive member benefits, including a discount on this year's bike tour:

$35 members get $15 off
$50 members get $25 off
$100 members get $50 off
$250 members get $100 off
$500 members get $200 off

Volunteer on the Ride

Both riders and non-riding participants can volunteer to help out during the ride. Volunteers who commit to the entire tour ride for free. Time commitments are detailed here. There are many volunteer possibilities available, including SAG and luggage truck drivers, rest stop help, route marking and more!

Learn more

Overnights

Riders stay overnight in Buffalo, Medina, Fairport, Seneca Falls, Syracuse, Rome, Canajoharie, and Schenectady at colorful tent cities. A variety of lodging and amenities are also available, from national hotel chains to bed and breakfasts. Rental and set up of tents and air mattresses is available from Comfy Campers.

What's included?

Indoor and outdoor camping accommodations
Eight hearty breakfasts and six delicious dinners
Two daily refreshment stops, stocked with fruit, snacks and beverages
Evening entertainment, including music and historical presentations

Guided tours of the Canal, historic sites, museums, and other attractions, including the Women’s Rights National Historic Park, Erie Canal Museum and Village, Fort Stanwix National Monument, and a boat tour through the Lockport locks.
Kick-off reception and end-of-tour celebration
Cycle the Erie Canal t-shirt
Baggage transport

SAG wagon and mobile mechanical support
Daily maps and cue sheets
Painted and arrowed routes
Pre-departure info packet, including training tips
Recognition as a Cycle the Erie Canal End-to-Ender
Amenities (for an additional fee) including fresh daily towels, gourmet morning coffee, tent and air mattress rental and set up.