Erie Canal Locks at Lockport

Embark on a long-distance touring cycling adventure with the Erie Canal view – Gasport Lift Bridge loop from Clarence Center, a route that immerses you in the rich history and diverse landscapes of the iconic Erie Canal. You'll glide along mostly paved surfaces, tracing historic towpaths that once guided canal boats, and pass through charming waterfronts, rural farmlands, and quaint canal towns. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like herons and turtles as you pedal, with the impressive Gasport Lift Bridge serving as a memorable landmark along the way.

This difficult 78.3-mile (126.0 km) loop, with a modest 591 feet (180 metres) of elevation gain, is a serious commitment, typically taking around 7 hours and 17 minutes to complete. It's best suited for cyclists with very good fitness who are looking for a full day's ride rather than a strenuous climb. Amenities like parking, bike racks, fix-it stations, and services in towns along the route make planning easier, allowing you to focus on the journey.

The Erie Canal itself is a world-renowned inland waterway, and this route is part of the larger Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. You'll encounter both defunct and operational locks and aqueducts, providing a tangible connection to the canal's pivotal role in American history. This loop offers a comprehensive experience of the canal's legacy and its vibrant surrounding communities.

The Erie Canal view – Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails loop from Amherst Street offers a long, pleasant touring cycling experience, primarily on paved surfaces. You'll follow the historic Erie Canal, enjoying water views and spotting local wildlife, before transitioning to the Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails, a smooth path known for its blend of urban convenience and nature observation. This moderate 50.4-mile (81.1 km) route, with a gentle 444 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain, is a great choice for cyclists looking for a scenic, accessible long ride that takes about 4 hours and 33 minutes to complete.

For planning your visit, parking is conveniently located at various points along the route, including Ives Park, Walter M. Kenney Field, and Amherst Veterans Canal Park. While the trail is mostly off-road, be prepared for a few short on-road sections where you'll share the shoulder with traffic. The Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails section is equipped with HAWK signals or RRFB at major intersections, enhancing safety for crossings.

This loop combines significant portions of the historic Erie Canalway Trail, part of the larger Empire State Trail, with the newer Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails. The Erie Canalway Trail offers a glimpse into New York's past, while the Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails, constructed in 2016, provides a vital recreational link for the community. You might even spot turkeys and various bird species along the way, adding a natural element to this urban-adjacent ride.