Amsterdam: Small City, Big Heart

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The mill town of Amsterdam is the only Mohawk Valley city built on both sides of the Mohawk River. The former “Carpet City” grew along the North Chuctanunda Creek that plunges through Amsterdam to the Mohawk River. Its warm residents will always welcome you and gladly assist you in this Limestone City.

Why visit Amsterdam?

  • Guy Park Manor: A historic house built in 1774 in Amsterdam, NY. It was constructed in the Georgian architectural style for Guy Johnson, the nephew and son-in-law of Sir William Johnson, the British Superintendent for Indian Affairs in colonial New York. The House played a significant role in the Revolutionary War and has been preserved as an Historic Site.
  • Mohawk Valley Gateway Overlook Pedestrian Bridge: Spanning 511 feet over the Mohawk River, this impressive bridge gives the history of Amsterdam, displays artwork, and connects us to the Mohawk River. Opened in August 2016, the bridge connects Riverlink Park on the north shore to Bridge Street on the south shore.
  • Waterfalls along the Chuc: The cascading falls of the Chuctanunda Creek are a highlight, with great views and a nice spot to rest right behind the Amsterdam Free Library and Post Office on the north side of the river.
  • World-class Italian Food: The city's name may not bring up visions of Italy, but between the pizza at Lorenzo's, just steps from the trail, or any of the house specialties at Russo's across the river, you can't go wrong.
  • The Royal Treatment: Did you know you can stay in a castle just a few hundred yards from the trail? The Amsterdam Castle, housed in the city's old Armory dating back to 1895, loves to welcome cyclists and is sure to give you the royal treatment!

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Parking & Trail Access

  • Empire State Trailhead off of Bridge Street near Lorenzo’s: Trailhead with parking, fix-it station, bike racks, benches and informational kiosk. Overnight parking permitted.
  • Bridge St City Parking Lot across from Montgomery County Visitor Center: Large parking lot directly across from the Montgomery County Visitor Center.
  • Mohawk Valley Gateway Overlook Bridge Trailhead: Parking lot for the bridge park, easy access to Empire State Trail. Overnight parking permitted.

Stay Overnight

Airbnb’s are also available. While the city works to develop overnight camping facilities, the nearest camping can be found at Lock E9 in Rotterdam.

Events & Festivals

  • Spring Fling: A lively annual event that marks the city’s first big outdoor festival of the year, held on Main Street downtown. (Mid May)
  • Amsterdam RiverFest: An annual event held at Riverlink Park. (First Saturday in August)
  • LatinoAmericano Festival: a vibrant celebration of Latin American culture at Riverlink Park. (Early/mid August)
  • ItaliaFest: A popular annual event celebrating Italian culture and heritage. (Early September)
  • WishFest: An annual community music festival with a mission to make a difference in the community. (Early/mid October)

Visitor Information

Montgomery County currently operates a visitor’s center at 54 Bridge Street. Currently the hours are: May-September, 9-4 Mon-Friday and occasionally Saturdays. Amenities includea bike pump, water, food and lodging information, Wi-Fi and cyclist amenities.

Trail Town Partners

City of Amsterdam, Montgomery County, Amsterdam Castle, Lorenzo’s Southside, Friends of the Chuctanunda, Bike Barn Cycles

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