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Adopt-a-Trail

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 in Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Wayne, Oneida, Herkimer, Warren, and Washington Counties.

We are currently accepting applications for the 2026 season. Please review the adopter manual before submitting an application. You can identify available sections of trail using the interactive map below.

Submit an application

maintain trails

As an Adopt-a-Trail volunteer you’ll help clean up and maintain trail sections.

host events

You’ll also have the opportunity to Host local Canal Clean Sweep events.

assist trail users

Help recommend nearby amenities and things to do for visiting trail users.

collect data

Assist with data collection to help us advocate for improved and expanded trails.

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 a Canal Clean Sweep event the weekend of April 17-19, 2026
  • Submitting monthly activity reports detailing your efforts

how to adopt a trail

  1. Review the Adopt‑A‑Trail Manual
  2. Select an available trail segment using the interactive adoption map above
  3. Complete and submit the online application (application period will be open through April 2026)
    • Applications are reviewed and approved by both PTNY and the New York State Canal Corporation
  4. Once approved, a representative from PTNY will reach out to confirm next steps.
Two men in brightly colored shirts water blooming flowerbeds.

why volunteer?

Enhance the user experience for the millions of people who enjoy the Canalway Trail, and play a vital role in a statewide network of volunteers dedicated to New York’s public lands. Questions? Contact Rebecca Murray at rmurray@ptny.org

the adopt-a-trail handbook

Interested in helping care for the Canalway Trail? Read the Adopt-a-Trail manual to learn how you can get involved in maintaining and protecting this incredible statewide resource.

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The Erie Canal at the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum.
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