For the first time in decades, Buffalo is celebrating the Erie Canal by building up the waterfront around its terminus. As much as rallying around the Canalside project is admirable, we must remember the big picture… the connectivity with the rest of the state via the canal itself, and an amazing trail that runs alongside it. We are lucky to have, at our doorstep, what will one day be the longest intra-state trail in the country.
On July 7, 2013, over 500 cyclists will depart from Buffalo to make an annual trek along the canal, traveling between 40 and 60 miles per day. This is the 15th year that the cyclists will be embarking upon the 400-mile trip that takes them from Buffalo to Albany via the canal trail. “The 15th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour is a wonderful way to explore the Erie Canal and Upstate New York. Plus it’s fun, healthy, and good for the economy,” says Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Robin Dropkin. “We have cyclists from 36 states and several countries, from 4 to 89 years old. And, they all get to experience what makes the Erie Canal and Upstate New York so special.”
Schedule of Events for Buffalo:
Saturday, July 6–Buffalo–Pre-tour activities- registration, reception, orientation
Tent City Location: Nichols School, 1250 Amherst St, Buffalo
Sunday, July 7–Buffalo to Medina
7:45am – Brief kick-off ceremony at Nichols School
8:00am – Start of ride
8:30am – 12:00pm – Morning Rest Stop, Amherst Erie Canal Museum
Also see http://www.ptny.org/canaltour