Lock 5 of the Waterford Flight | | Canal Season is Just Around the Bend | | The NYS Canal System opens for 2026 in just two months—which means pre-season activities are in full swing! We’re gearing up to welcome visitors from across the country and around the world with new itineraries, trip‑planning resources, Junior Ranger activities, and a full season of community events. In partnership with the NYS Canal Corporation, we’re also expanding our amenities assessment from the Erie Canal to the Champlain Canal and providing grants to help communities deliver an exceptional experience for every canal traveler. Exciting times ahead! | | | | |
Exploring New York's Canals
More than 260 people from 28 states and two Canadian Provinces registered for our webinar Exploring New York’s Canals by Boat, Bike, or Paddle held on February 28. The webinar brought together experts from Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, NYS Canal Corporation, Parks & Trails New York, and Erie Canal Museum to offer practical tools and plenty of inspiration for planning an adventure along the canal.
If you missed it, view the session on YouTube or download the slide deck to find all the great information and resources shared.
WATCH NOW
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FEBRUARY 15 Results Are In!
Kudos to our FEBRUARY 15 Challenge finishers, who were undeterred by this winter's severe weather. More than 300 people completed 15 miles or more in February, earning bragging rights, a warm pair of socks, and the physical and mental health benefits of being outdoors. Together, they logged an impressive 6,954 miles.
Get in on the action when the 2026 Canalway Challenge begins in May!
VIEW FINISHERS
| | The Erie Canal Learning Hub is a joint initiative of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and the New York State Canal Corporation with additional support from the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation. | |
Attention Educators!
FREE Virtual Professional Development Workshops
Explore the Erie Canal’s connections to the Underground Railroad and learn effective strategies for teaching this important history with confidence and care at our upcoming virtual workshops. These sessions are offered in partnership with Coordinated Care Services, Inc.’s Our Local History team in Rochester and Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES, but are open to educators throughout the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. Learn more and register:
Lunch & Learn Workshop- April 28, 11:30 am-12:30 pm REGISTER >
After School Workshop- May 12, 3:00-5:00 pm REGISTER >
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Mohawk Valley Historic Revitalization Grants Open
We have opened a new round of applications for Mohawk Valley Historic Revitalization Grants to support capital improvements for historic properties in rural communities within the Mohawk Valley in Herkimer and Montgomery counties. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through June 30, 2026, or until all funds are committed.
FIND DETAILS & APPLY
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Be Moved by Women and Water
The American Revolution introduced ideals of freedom and liberty, but the struggle for who could fully claim those rights has continued for 250 years. A pivotal place in expanding rights for women is Seneca Falls on the Cayuga–Seneca Canal. In 1848, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and four other women invited the public to attend “a Convention to discuss the social, civil, and religious rights and condition of women.” This landmark event became the first Women’s Rights Convention and marked the beginning of a sustained effort to advance women’s rights in America.
Plan Your Trip to Seneca Falls to experience Women’s Rights National Historical Park, the National Women’s Hall of Fame, and the best of Seneca Falls.
VIEW THE ITINERARY
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Upstate Sports Summer Expo- Free!
Saturday and Sunday, March 14 & 15, Saratoga Springs City Center
Attention Capital Region sports enthusiasts: come see us at the Expo! We’ll be there to talk about all things canal recreation. More than 200 exhibitors will get you ready for your summer adventures.
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Learn about the Seneca Chief
Wednesday, March 25, 7pm, via Zoom
Spindle City Historic Society in Cohoes invites you to a presentation on the replica Erie Canal Boat, Seneca Chief by Eddie Knibloe, Exhibits and Collections Manager of the Buffalo Maritime Center. Learn about the history of the original boat, the making of the replica, last year's Bicentennial Voyage, and where you can see the boat in 2026.
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Paddle the Canals: Mohawk River Adventure - Register Now!
Saturday, June 27, 9am - 2pm, Niskayuna to Latham
Paddle the scenic Mohawk River/Erie Canal on this seven-mile guided adventure from Lock E7 Park in Niskayuna to Colonie Town Park. This signature event hosted by the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is a fundraiser for the NYS Canalway Water Trail. Tickets $75 adults, $40 youth 7-12, includes lunch. Kayak rentals available for a fee.
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The canal isn’t just the place to be in 2026, it’s a place to belong. Join the community of volunteers that protect and share New York’s remarkable canal heritage along our land and water trails, and at historic sites and museums.
UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES
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2026 Canal Clean Sweep, April 17-19; Create a cleanup event or sign up to help thousands of volunteers across the state clean up trails, greenways, and parks.
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Museum Volunteers- Visit museums and historic sites near you and inquire about volunteering. These sites need tour guides, educators, and help with special projects.
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NYS Canalway Water Trail Stewards- Join over 90 volunteer stewards who clean and maintain launches and act as ambassadors along the NYS Canal System. Sign up by June 1.
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Let's ensure the Erie Canal's next century is its best.
The Erie Canal is a legacy we all share—experienced on the water, along the Canalway Trail, at historic and cultural sites, and in communities that bring the Canalway Corridor to life. Your support helps protect these places and experiences. Make a gift today to ensure a thriving Canalway Corridor for generations to come by supporting the Erie Canalway Heritage Fund, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit partner of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
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