Volunteer to Preserve New York’s Canalway Trail
Join the Adopt‑a‑Trail program to ensure that New York’s Canalway Trail remains clean, welcoming, and well-maintained throughout the season. Communities across the state–about 25 groups and individuals–actively participate in this powerful volunteer initiative.
Funded by the New York State Canal Corporation and administered by Parks & Trails New York, Adopt-a-Trail offers a rewarding way to contribute to your community and preserve public lands across the canal corridor.
Application period opens January 2026. Contact Rebecca Murray (rmurray@ptny.org) if you have any immediate questions.
ready to get involved?
Enhance the user experience for the millions who enjoy the Canalway Trails and play a vital role in a statewide network of volunteers dedicated to New York’s public lands. Questions? Contact PTNY at canaltrail@ptny.org
the adopt-a-trail handbook
Interested in helping care for the Empire State Trail? Read the Adopt-a-Trail Manual to learn how you can get involved in maintaining and protecting this incredible statewide resource.
commitment & schedule
Adopters enjoy flexibility while making a meaningful impact. Requirements include:
- Visiting the adopted trail segment at least once a month between April 1 and November 30
- Performing a minimum of 4 volunteer hours per month
- Hosting at least one Canal Clean Sweep during the season
- Submitting monthly activity reports detailing your efforts
how to adopt a trail
- Review the Adopt‑A‑Trail Manual
- Select an available trail segment using the interactive adoption map
- Complete and submit the online application
- Applications are reviewed and approved by both PTNY and the New York State Canal Corporation
- Once approved, collect volunteer registration forms for all participants
- Maintain and update your annual volunteer roster with contact details