Paddlers Invited to Celebrate Erie Canal Bicentennial with Guided Waterford Tour
Local paddlers will have a chance to experience one of the Erie Canal’s most historic sections during Paddle the Canals: Erie Canal 200, a guided kayak and canoe trip scheduled for Sunday, June 22, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will take participants through the Waterford Flight, a set of five locks that help vessels navigate a steep elevation change, offering a unique perspective on the canal’s engineering and history.
The 2.7-mile paddle will begin at Alcathy’s Boat Launch and end at Waterford Point Boat Ramp. Participants will be guided through the towering locks of the Waterford Flight, providing an up-close experience of one of the most significant engineering feats of the canal system. The journey will conclude with a lunch at Peebles Island State Park, followed by an optional guided history walk at 1 p.m.
Registration for the event is $50, which includes lunch and a commemorative t-shirt. The event is limited to 225 participants, and advance registration is required.
A complimentary shuttle service will be available from Peebles Island State Park and the Waterford Visitors Center to the starting point at Alcathy’s Boat Launch between 7 a.m. and 8:45 a.m. Participants are encouraged to drop off their gear at the launch site, park at one of several designated locations, and then take the shuttle back to the starting point.
Life jackets are required for all participants while on the water.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Pets are not permitted.
For those who do not have their own kayak or canoe, Upstate Kayak Rentals is offering rentals for the event. Rentals are not included in the registration fee and must be reserved in advance. Participants can contact Upstate Kayak Rentals at 518-209-1063 or info@upstatekayakrentals.com for more information.
This event offers a rare opportunity to paddle through a critical section of the Erie Canal while learning about its 200-year history. With scenic views, historic locks, and a relaxed paddle route, Paddle the Canals: Erie Canal 200 aims to blend outdoor adventure with cultural heritage, making it a memorable experience for both seasoned paddlers and beginners alike.
For more information or to register, visit [event website or contact details if available].